China launched four “spy balloons” over Taiwan on Tuesday, three of which were floating near a key air force base, the country’s Defense Ministry said.
Three of the balloons passed over Ching-Chuan-Kang Air Base, where Taiwan maintains many of its tactical fighter wings dedicated to defending the island against the military threat from China. The fourth loomed north of Keelung, a major trading port with Japan.
The potential intelligence-gathering devices sent by China come as the communist nation has threatened to invade and annex the autonomous republic, and ahead of presidential elections on the island.
Three of the balloons passed over Ching-Chuan-Kang air base and a fourth flew over north of Keelung. REUTERS The possible intelligence gathering devices sent by China follow the country’s threats to invade and annex Taiwan. AFP via Getty Images
Elections for president and legislature will be held on January 13 and China has attempted to influence voters to elect pro-unification politicians through military, diplomatic and economic pressure.
Polls project victory for the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party, as Taiwanese citizens hope to maintain their independence from mainland China.
China’s People’s Liberation Army has a fleet of so-called spy balloons equipped with technology designed to collect sensitive information from other countries.
China has attempted to influence voters to elect pro-unification politicians through military, diplomatic and economic pressure. AP
Last February, US officials shot down a huge Chinese balloon believed to be spying on military operations in North America.
The extensive aerial surveillance program has targeted more than 40 countries, according to the Biden administration.
With post cables
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Source: vtt.edu.vn