January 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

France, Australia vow to deepen ties with Taiwan at '2+2' meeting CNA 31 Jan 2023 -- France and Australia on Monday pledged to deepen ties with Taiwan and reiterated their support for its participation in international organizations at the 2023 Foreign and Defense Ministerial Consultations in Paris.
New Cabinet, Presidential Office officials sworn in CNA 31 Jan 2023 -- The new Cabinet led by Premier Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁), Secretary-General to the President Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍), and other new Presidential Office appointments were sworn into office Tuesday morning.
China slams Czech president-elect over phone call with Taipei president Press TV 31 Jan 2023 -- China has denounced a phone call between Czech President-elect Petr Pavel and Tsai Ing-Wen, the secessionist president of Chinese Taipei.
Taiwan reports 32,287 new COVID-19 cases, 32 deaths CNA 31 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 32,287 new cases of COVID-19 and 32 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan to lift COVID-19 testing on travelers from China from Feb. 7 CNA 31 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan will no longer require travelers from China to undergo a saliva COVID-19 test when they arrive in the country from Feb. 7, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Tuesday.
Taiwan set to relax indoor mask mandate CNA 31 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan is in the final stages of scrapping the national face mask mandate for most indoor public places, with details set to be announced Feb. 2, Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) spokesperson Chuang Jen-hsiang (莊人祥) said Tuesday.
Taiwan reports 22,291 new COVID-19 cases, 30 deaths CNA 30 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Monday reported 22,291 new cases of COVID-19 and 30 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
New round of COVID-19 rapid test rationing to start Feb. 1 CNA 30 Jan 2023 -- The latest round of a government rationing program that allows people to buy cheaper COVID-19 rapid tests will begin on Feb. 1, while free tests will be available to seniors and families with young children, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Monday.
CECC eyes broad easing of COVID policies, with mask rules first on docket CNA 30 Jan 2023 -- The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) has begun discussing a widespread easing of Taiwan's COVID-19 policies and will announce plans this week to relax the indoor mask mandate, CECC chief Victor Wang (王必勝) said Monday.
Tien-Kung III, PAC-3 missile systems deployed in northern Taiwan: Source CNA 30 Jan 2023 -- Domestically-produced Tien-Kung III surface-to-air defense systems and U.S.-made MIM-104F (PAC-3) Patriot missiles have been deployed along Taiwan's northern coast, a military source said Monday.
When might China invade Taiwan? Depends who you ask Radio Free Asia 30 Jan 2023 -- When will China invade Taiwan? Probably by 2027, if you believe Adm. Philip Davidson, the now-retired head of the U.S. military's Indo-Pacific Command.
Report: US general warns over 2025 conflict in Taiwan but analysts are skeptical Radio Free Asia 30 Jan 2023 -- A top U.S. general issued a warning to his staff that a war with China over Taiwan may break out in two years, in what some Taiwanese analysts call a "worst-case scenario" that so far remains unlikely.
Lawyer says Taiwan's restrictions on Hong Kong migrants 'unreasonable' Radio Free Asia 30 Jan 2023 -- An experienced immigration lawyer has hit out at Taiwanese officials over ongoing restrictions on Hong Kong migrants, which appear to run counter to its democratic government's vocal opposition to China's treatment of dissent in the city.
China's partial lifting of import ban on Taiwan a political move: MAC CNA 30 Jan 2023 -- China's lifting of its ban on imports of 63 products from Taiwanese food and beverage producers is being described by the head of Taiwan's main agency responsible for handling China-related issues as a "political maneuver."
Taiwan reports 27,350 new COVID-19 cases, 22 deaths CNA 29 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported 27,350 new cases of COVID-19 and 22 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Defense, MOFA, and cross-strait affairs heads unchanged in new Cabinet CNA 29 Jan 2023 -- Incumbent Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng (邱國正) and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) will continue serving in Premier-designate Chen Chien-jen's (陳建仁) new Cabinet, Chen said in a Facebook post on Sunday.
Taiwan reports 27,444 new COVID-19 cases, 20 deaths CNA 28 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Saturday reported 27,444 new cases of COVID-19 and 20 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Ex-VP Chen Chien-jen appointed premier CNA 27 Jan 2023 -- Former Vice President Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) will replace Premier Su Tseng-chang (蘇貞昌) as the leader of Taiwan's Cabinet, President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) announced Friday.
Taiwan reports 24,350 new COVID-19 cases, 15 deaths CNA 27 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Friday reported 24,350 new cases of COVID-19 and 15 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
COVID-19 testing on travelers from China extended through Feb. 6 CNA 27 Jan 2023 -- A government policy launched in January requiring travelers from China to undergo a saliva COVID-19 test when they arrive in Taiwan will be extended through Feb. 6, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Friday.
Taiwan reports 19,144 new COVID-19 cases, 21 deaths CNA 26 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 19,144 new cases of COVID-19 and 21 deaths from the disease on Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Deputy foreign minister Tsai Ming-yen to lead NSB CNA 26 Jan 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) announced the first moves of a government reshuffle Thursday with the appointment of Deputy Foreign Minister Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥) as National Security Bureau (NSB) chief, and Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) as secretary-general of the Presidential Office.
Hong Kong Activists Unsure of Future Role in Taiwan VOA 26 Jan 2023 -- A government error in Taiwan that saw a set of political restrictions on Hong Kongers and Macanese residents briefly published online has once again raised the question about how welcome they are, despite promises of support from President Tsai Ing-wen.
Taiwan reports 16,518 new COVID-19 cases, 22 deaths CNA 25 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 16,518 new cases of COVID-19 and 22 deaths from the disease on Wednesday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan's President Tells Vatican War with China 'Not an Option' VOA 25 Jan 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan has told Pope Francis that peaceful relations with China will only occur when Beijing respects the island's sovereignty.
Taiwan reports 14,859 new COVID-19 cases, 24 deaths CNA 24 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 14,859 new cases of COVID-19, of which all but 186 were domestic, and 24 deaths from the disease on Tuesday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Civil defense reforms needed to meet Taiwan's defense goals: Experts CNA 24 Jan 2023 -- After months of speculation, President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) announced on Dec. 27 that compulsory military service in Taiwan would be extended from four months to a full year to meet the security threat posed by China.
U.S. senator questions if Australia, NZ, would help defend Taiwan CNA 24 Jan 2023 -- A senior United States senator on Monday questioned the willingness of some American allied countries to help defend Taiwan in case of a Chinese invasion, while expressing concern over Taipei's ability to endure such an invasion long enough before friendly forces arrive.
Taiwan reports 10,669 new COVID-19 cases, 24 deaths CNA 23 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 10,669 new cases of COVID-19, all but 168 of which were domestic infections, and 24 deaths from the disease on Monday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reports 19,187 new COVID-19 cases, 27 deaths CNA 22 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 19,187 new cases of COVID-19 and 27 deaths from the disease on Sunday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
10 Chinese planes detected around Taiwan as LNY arrived CNA 22 Jan 2023 -- A total of 10 Chinese military aircraft and four naval ships were detected in areas in the general vicinity of Taiwan between Saturday and Sunday, when the new Lunar New Year began, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan reports 21,078 new COVID-19 cases, 33 deaths CNA 21 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 21,078 new cases of COVID-19 and 33 deaths from the disease on Saturday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Blinken reiterates importance of cross-Taiwan Strait stability CNA 21 Jan 2023 -- United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday reiterated the importance of cross Taiwan-Strait stability, but expressed concern that Beijing no longer seems comfortable with the status quo.
Hon Hai fined NT$10 million for China investment CNA 21 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan-based manufacturing giant Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. has been fined NT$10 million (US$328,947) by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) for not getting regulatory approval for its investment in a Chinese semiconductor company.
Taiwan reports 18,218 new COVID-19 cases, 61 deaths CNA 20 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 18,218 new cases of COVID-19 and 61 deaths from the disease on Friday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China Sends 31 Aircraft, 4 Ships to Taiwan Strait: Taiwanese Defense Ministry Sputnik 20 Jan 2023 -- The Taiwanese Defense Ministry said on Friday that the island's armed forces registered 31 aircraft and four ships of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) approaching the island during the day.
China Issues Veiled Warning to US Over Taiwan VOA 20 Jan 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a veiled warning to the United States in his new year message to the country, stressing that China will be engaged in "serious struggles" against separatism and interference in its relations with Taiwan, state media, CCTV and the Xinhua news agency reported Friday.
DPP's 'anti-mainland card' fails, wider division expected as secessionist resigns as head of island's 'executive body' Global Times 20 Jan 2023 -- The head of Taiwan island's executive body Su Tseng-chang announced on Thursday that his team will resign en masse, and his resignation is pending approval from the regional leader Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan-based media outlets have reported.
Taiwan Broadcaster Aims to Fill Gaps in Coverage VOA 20 Jan 2023 -- It may be a relative newcomer to Taiwan's media scene, but broadcaster TaiwanPlus has quickly established itself as a voice for the island.
Taiwan reports 18,414 new COVID-19 cases, 48 deaths CNA 19 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 18,414 new cases of COVID-19 and 48 deaths from the disease on Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
European Parliament calls for strategy to bolster Taiwan's security CNA 19 Jan 2023 -- The European Parliament on Wednesday adopted the implementation reports on two major security polices of the European Union and called on competent EU institutions to "urgently draw up a scenario-based strategy" to tackle Taiwan's security challenges.
Taiwan island executive body announces resignation en masse Global Times 19 Jan 2023 -- The head of Taiwan island's executive body Su Tseng-chang announced on Thursday that his team will resign en masse, and his resignation is pending approval from the regional leader Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan-based media outlets reported.
Court orders detention of ex-lawmaker, retired Navy officer in spy case CNA 19 Jan 2023 -- The Kaohsiung District Court on Thursday overturned its earlier decision, ruling that former legislator Lo Chih-ming (羅志明) and retired Navy major general Hsia Fu-hsiang (夏復翔) should be detained and held incommunicado on suspicion of helping China develop an espionage ring in Taiwan.
Taiwan reports 20,768 new COVID-19 cases, 26 deaths CNA 18 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 20,768 new cases of COVID-19 and 26 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Expert predicts new wave of COVID subvariants to come, peak in March CNA 18 Jan 2023 -- New COVID-19 subvariants will become dominant in Taiwan later this year, with a new wave most likely arriving and peaking in March, National Taiwan University College of Public Health professor Chen Hsiu-hsi (陳秀熙) projected Wednesday.
Taiwan expresses 'grave concern' over Honduras-China envoy meeting CNA 18 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday it had expressed "grave concern" after Honduran Foreign Minister Enrique Reina met with Chinese Foreign Affairs Vice Minister Xie Feng (謝峰) on Jan. 1.
Taiwan reports 19,970 new COVID-19 cases, 30 deaths CNA 17 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 19,970 new cases of COVID-19 and 30 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Military to launch voluntary reservist training, also open to women CNA 17 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's military announced on Tuesday that it would soon allow reservists to voluntarily enroll in its dual-track reservist training, which would also be open to female reservists.
Taiwan's army reassures public over Volcano mine-dispensing system CNA 17 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's army on Tuesday denied that its procurement of the M136 Volcano mine-dispensing system from the United States would turn Taiwan into an "island of landmines," amid concerns raised by opposition parties and civic groups over the use of landmines on the island.
India to work with Taiwan for peace, prosperity in Indo-Pacific: Envoy CNA 17 Jan 2023 -- India is looking forward to working with Taiwan to promote regional peace and stability, the country's top envoy to Taipei said Tuesday.
Taiwan reports 15,632 COVID-19 cases, 40 deaths CNA 16 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Monday reported 15,632 new cases of COVID-19 and 40 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. Volcano sale to include anti-tank mines only: Taiwan military CNA 16 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's military said Monday that only anti-tank munitions would be included in a proposed purchase of Volcano mine-dispensing systems from the United States, after concerns were raised by opposition lawmakers.
Investigation Bureau probes alleged classified intelligence leak CNA 16 Jan 2023 -- The Investigation Bureau said Monday that it is probing the sale of documents online that are being advertised as classified Taiwanese intelligence files.
Taiwan reports 21,270 new COVID-19 cases, 31 deaths CNA 15 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported 21,270 new cases of COVID-19 and 31 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan reports 20,412 new COVID-19 cases, 47 deaths CNA 14 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 20,412 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday and 47 deaths from the disease.
U.S., Japan reiterate importance of maintaining peace across Taiwan Strait CNA 14 Jan 2023 -- The United States and Japan on Friday reiterated that the maintaining of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is an indispensable element of security and prosperity in the international community.
Taiwan reports 21,737 new COVID-19 cases, 53 deaths CNA 13 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 21,737 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday and 53 deaths from the disease.
NATO should play more active role in Indo-Pacific: Lithuanian lawmaker CNA 13 Jan 2023 -- Visiting Lithuanian lawmaker Audronius Ažubalis said Friday that NATO should play a more active role in the Indo-Pacific region to counter the growing threat from China.
Taiwan hopes for peace, end of COVID in LNY message to China CNA 13 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has sent China a Lunar New Year (LNY) message hoping that the COVID-19 outbreak there will soon ease and that the Taiwan Strait is blessed with peace and stability, which is the shared hope of people on the two sides.
Spanish lawmaker calls for maintenance of cross-strait status quo CNA 13 Jan 2023 -- Spain's Congress of Deputies opposes any unilateral action to alter the status quo of the Taiwan Strait, visiting Spanish lawmaker Rosa Romero Sanchez said Friday in Taipei.
Taiwan reports 22,937 new COVID-19 cases, 48 deaths CNA 12 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 22,937 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, all but 284 were domestically transmitted, and 48 deaths from the disease.
Navy showcases locally made landing platform dock in Kaohsiung CNA 12 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Navy provided a demonstration of its Yushan landing platform dock's (LPD) ability to transport Hsiung Feng II (HF-2) long-range missile batteries and other armed personnel and utility carriers in Kaohsiung Thursday.
Taiwan could survive China invasion with U.S., Japan help, but at high cost: CSIS CNA 12 Jan 2023 -- With timely and direct military involvement from the United States and Japan, Taiwan could survive as an autonomous political entity if China were to launch an amphibious invasion in 2026, but losses to all the parties will be enormous, a U.S. think tank has predicted.
Pentagon Chief: US 'Seriously Doubts' Chinese Vessel Activity Means Invasion of Taiwan Imminent Sputnik 12 Jan 2023 -- US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said during a news conference that he "seriously doubts" the increased activity of China's naval forces around Taiwan means an invasion of the island is imminent.
Former top Taiwan military official discloses White House meeting CNA 12 Jan 2023 -- A former top official in Taiwan's military on Thursday disclosed that he was invited to meet with a senior American official in the White House in 2019, highlighting the cordial ties between the two militaries despite the lack of diplomatic relations.
Mainland outlines 2023 prospect of cross-Strait relations People's Daily 12 Jan 2023 -- A spokesperson of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office put forward an outlook for cross-Strait relations at the office's first press conference of 2023 Wednesday.
Progress made in cross-Strait exchanges in 2022: mainland spokesperson People's Daily 12 Jan 2023 -- The year of 2022 saw new progress in advancing exchanges between people of the Chinese mainland and Taiwan despite difficulties caused by COVID-19 and obstructions made by Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Wednesday.
Mainland facilitates expansion of cross-Strait flights: spokesperson People's Daily 12 Jan 2023 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said the mainland is actively facilitating efforts to increase flight routes and capacity across the Taiwan Strait as the Spring Festival approaches.
"Taiwan independence" and peace are irreconcilable: spokesperson People's Daily 12 Jan 2023 -- "Taiwan independence" and peace are as irreconcilable as fire and water, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said on Wednesday, urging certain politicians in Taiwan to give up on their separatist position.
Taiwan reports 25,643 new COVID-19 cases, 46 deaths CNA 11 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 25,643 new cases of COVID-19 and 46 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S., Japan reaffirm stance on Taiwan in '2+2' meeting CNA 12 Jan 2023 -- The U.S.' and Japan's top diplomats and military officials stated after the "2+2" U.S.-Japan Security Consultative Committee on Wednesday that the two countries' basic position on Taiwan remains unchanged, while reiterating the importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait for the international community.
Taiwan's military makes public exchange program with NATO CNA 11 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's military made public on Wednesday its participation in an exchange project with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) by having a pilot who took part talk about it during a military media tour before the Lunar New Year break.
Taiwan to buy 100 Sidewinder missiles from U.S.: Source CNA 11 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has signed a contract to purchase 100 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical missiles and related components worth NT$2.394 billion (US$78.63 million) from the United States that are expected to be fully delivered by 2030, according to a military source on Wednesday.
Court finds former air force officers guilty in Taiwan's latest espionage case Radio Free Asia 11 Jan 2023 -- A court in Taipei has found two former high-ranking military officers guilty of violating the national security law in the latest espionage case involving Taiwanese military personnel.
PNG to close Taipei trade office due to financial difficulties: MOFA CNA 11 Jan 2023 -- Papua New Guinea's (PNG) decision to close its trade office in Taipei and "relocate it back to the Pacific country under a new name" was made due to its government's long-term financial difficulties, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday.
Papua New Guinea to close Taiwan trade office Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2023 -- Papua New Guinea will close its trade office in Taiwan, but has denied the move is a concession to China at the same time as it boosts its defense relationship with Australia.
Taiwan reports single day high of 560 imported COVID-19 cases CNA 10 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 25,063 new COVID-19 infections Tuesday, including 560 cases classified as contracted overseas, and 26 deaths from the disease.
War game instigates US intervention in possible Taiwan Straits conflict Global Times 10 Jan 2023 -- A recent war game scenario run by the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is not worthy of reference, as it was designed to hype the "China threat" theory, and to suggest the US should fully arm the island of Taiwan preemptively, and instigate the US military to immediately intervene if a conflict breaks out, Chinese mainland experts said on Tuesday.
Chinese invasion of Taiwan would fail, but at a high cost for all, CSIS says Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2023 -- A Chinese invasion of Taiwan would not succeed should the U.S. and Japan back Taipei but it would come at a high cost for all parties involved, the influential Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said.
Think Tank: Simulation Predicts Taiwan Could Defeat China With US-Japan Aid in Invasion Scenario Sputnik 10 Jan 2023 -- The United States is officially committed to a "one-China" policy, which concedes that Taiwan is part of China. However, the United States has kept informal relations with Taipei and provides arms to its government.
Mainland dominance to prevail in cross-Straits ties People's Daily 11 Jan 2023 -- The Chinese mainland will firmly maintain its strategic dominance to steer cross-Straits relations in the right direction this year, according to observers.
Changing status quo by force 'unacceptable': Visiting German lawmaker CNA 10 Jan 2023 -- Changing the status quo in the Taiwan Strait by force is "unacceptable," visiting German parliamentarian and Free Democratic Party (FDP) chief whip Johannes Vogel said Tuesday during a meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) in Taipei.
Spanish congressional delegation arrives in Taiwan, 1st in 3 years CNA 10 Jan 2023 -- A delegation from the lower house of Spain's legislative branch, the Congress of Deputies, arrived in Taiwan Tuesday for a five-day visit, making it the first group from Spain's Congress to visit Taiwan in over three years, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Fourth Generation of Chiang Kai-Shek's Family Takes Office in Taipei VOA 10 Jan 2023 -- Wayne Chiang Wan-an, the ostensible great-grandson of Chiang Kai-shek who was sworn in as mayor of Taipei City late last month, is the latest scion of an Asian political dynasty to assume public office.
Ex-Air Force officers get suspended sentences for security offenses CNA 10 Jan 2023 -- Two former military officers have been found guilty of national security-related offenses but received suspended sentences and were ordered to pay a combined NT$900,000 (US$29,557) to the nation's coffers.
Taiwan reports 17,318 new COVID-19 cases, 40 deaths CNA 09 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 17,318 new COVID-19 infections Monday -- all but 416 domestic cases -- and 40 deaths from the disease.
Taiwan welcomes first German parliamentarian delegation in 2023 CNA 09 Jan 2023 -- A group of Free Democratic Party parliamentarians from Germany, led by the chair of the Bundestag Defense Committee, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann and the party's deputy chair, Johannes Vogel, arrived in Taiwan on Monday, making them the first German delegation to travel to Taiwan this year.
China condemns German legislators visit to Taiwan, reaffirms 'One China' policy Press TV 09 Jan 2023 -- China has condemned a visit by German parliamentarians to Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), invoking Germany's 'painful' history and reaffirming the 'One China' policy.
China's military drills around Taiwan aimed at U.S.: Scholar CNA 09 Jan 2023 -- China's latest round of military exercises around Taiwan, including the deployment of over 50 warplanes on Sunday, are likely intended to warn the United States against carrying out some of the Taiwan-related provisions in a recently passed defense bill, a Taiwanese scholar told CNA on Monday.
China's military carries out year's first live-fire drill around Taiwan Radio Free Asia 09 Jan 2023 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army launched its first joint combat drills in 2023 around Taiwan, a move Taiwan's defense ministry called "irrational and provocative."
57 Chinese aircraft detected near Taiwan as PLA holds military drills CNA 09 Jan 2023 -- Fifty-seven Chinese aircraft and four warships were detected near Taiwan from 6 a.m. Sunday to 6 a.m. Monday, and were part of the joint combat training exercises conducted by China, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
PLA conducts exercise in waters, airspace around Taiwan Island PLA Daily 09 Jan 2023 -- The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) organized the joint combat-readiness security patrol and real-combat exercise involving troops of multiple services and arms in the waters and airspace around the Taiwan Island on January 8, said Army Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command (ETC). The exercise focused on land strikes, sea assaults and other subjects, aiming to test the troops' joint combat capability and resolutely counter the collusive and provocative acts of the external forces and the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.
Taiwan reports 23,411 new COVID-19 cases, 36 deaths CNA 08 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 23,411 new COVID-19 infections Sunday -- all but 331 domestic cases -- and 36 deaths from the disease.
PLA announces 1st joint drill around Taiwan island in 2023, countering provocations from external, 'Taiwan independence' forces Global Times 08 Jan 2023 -- In a first of such move in 2023, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) announced on Sunday it conducted joint alert patrol and combat exercises around the island of Taiwan on the day countering collusions between external and "Taiwan independence" forces, with Chinese mainland experts saying that the PLA will only intensify its drills this year if provocations do not stop.
Chinese Army Conducts Military Drills in Taiwanese Waters, Airspace Sputnik 08 Jan 2023 -- China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) held military exercises on Sunday in Taiwanese waters and airspace in order to test the combat effectiveness of Chinese troops, Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, said.
Taiwan reports 24,422 new COVID-19 cases, 61 deaths CNA 07 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 24,422 new COVID-19 infections Saturday -- all but 290 domestic cases -- and 61 deaths from the disease.
Taiwan's total COVID-19 cases top 9 million CNA 06 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's total COVID-19 cases surpassed 9 million on Friday as the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 27,676 new COVID-19 infections and 62 deaths from the disease.
Army holds combat readiness drill in Chiayi featuring tactical drone CNA 06 Jan 2023 -- A tactical close-range rotary-wing drone developed by Taiwan's state-run weapons developer was featured for the first time in an active combat readiness drill held Friday at an Army base in Chiayi County.
U.S. warship transits through Taiwan Strait CNA 06 Jan 2023 -- A United States warship sailed through international waters in the Taiwan Strait on Thursday to show Washington's "commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the 7th Fleet under the U.S. Pacific Command said in a statement.
US warship sails through Taiwan Strait amid rising tensions with China Press TV 06 Jan 2023 -- A US warship on Thursday sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, prompting strong criticism from Beijing amid frayed ties between the two countries.
China accuses US of fueling tensions in Taiwan Strait Radio Free Asia 06 Jan 2023 -- A U.S. naval ship made another "routine" Taiwan Strait transit Thursday, drawing criticism from China which said the exercise would "escalate tensions" in the region.
Chinese Army Says US 'Made a Fuss' by Sending Warship to Pass Through Taiwan Strait Sputnik 06 Jan 2023 -- A US destroyer's passage through the Taiwan Strait put China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on high alert amid local tensions, with the Chinese military monitoring the ship's movements along the entire route, a PLA spokesperson said on Friday.
Taiwan reports 31,514 new COVID-19 cases, 45 deaths CNA 05 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan reported 31,514 new COVID-19 infections and 45 deaths from the disease on Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
About 20 percent of arrivals from China test positive for COVID: CECC CNA 05 Jan 2023 -- China's COVID-19 pandemic is still peaking, with about 20 percent of arrivals from China at Taiwan airports testing positive for the coronavirus, according to the Central Epidemic Control Center (CECC) on Thursday.
Care facility mandatory testing to be tightened as COVID-19 cases rise CNA 05 Jan 2023 -- Mandatory COVID-19 testing will be tightened for residents and workers at long-term care facilities starting next week as new cases continue to rise in Taiwan, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Thursday.
PLA fully monitors US destroyer's transit through Taiwan Straits, maintains high alert Global Times 06 Jan 2023 -- The PLA Eastern Theater Command fully monitored, tracked and maintained high alert for US missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon transiting through the Taiwan Straits on Thursday, PLA Eastern Theater Command announced Friday.
US Guided-Missile Destroyer Chung-Hoon Transits Through Taiwan Strait in Fresh Provocation Sputnik 05 Jan 2023 -- The US guided-missile destroyer Chung-Hoon transited through the neutral waters of the Taiwan strait in a demonstration of the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, the 7th Fleet Public Affairs said on Thursday.
Taiwan's military says capacity sufficient to train one-year conscripts CNA 05 Jan 2023 -- The Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday its capacity was sufficient to train conscripts once mandatory military service in Taiwan is extended to one year in 2024.
Ex-chief calls on NATO to help Taiwan train, hold joint drills in Europe CNA 05 Jan 2023 -- Visiting former NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen called on the intergovernmental security alliance and European countries on Thursday to hold joint exercises with Taiwan's military on "European soil" to prevent a Chinese invasion.
South Korean politicians' visit to Taiwan region sends wrong signal to 'Taiwan independence' forces, extremely dangerous: Chinese Embassy Global Times 05 Jan 2023 -- China has lodged solemn representations to South Korea and urged it to abide by the one-China principle, a spokesperson of Chinese Embassy in South Korea said in a statement on Thursday after a few South Korean politicians paid a provocative visit to China's Taiwan island.
German politicians due in Taipei as West escalates China tensions Press TV 05 Jan 2023 -- Germany will send a high-ranking parliamentary delegation to Taipei next week, a move highly likely to spark tensions with China.
Former lawmaker, retired Navy officer questioned in Chinese spy probe CNA 05 Jan 2023 -- Former legislator Lo Chih-ming (羅志明) and retired Navy major general Hsia Fu-hsiang (夏復翔) were questioned while in the custody of prosecutors Thursday on suspicion of recruiting retired military personnel to travel on hosted trips to China.
Taiwan reports 33,871 new COVID-19 cases, 17 deaths CNA 04 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 33,871 new COVID-19 infections and 17 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan donates US$2 million more to Ukraine to battle power outages CNA 04 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan has pledged an additional US$2 million to fund emergency electricity generation in three Ukrainian cities hard hit by Russia's invasion to help them survive the winter and overcome power outages due to air strikes on critical infrastructure.
Taiwan rules out missile info leak despite equipment repairs in China CNA 04 Jan 2023 -- The Taiwan military's top research body denied on Wednesday any data breach after local media reported that equipment used to calibrate the unit's domestically-developed supersonic missile system was recently found to have been repaired in China.
Taipei blasts Moscow over support of Beijing's Taiwan claim CNA 04 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has condemned Russia for echoing China's "false" claim that Taiwan is part of its territory after a top Russian diplomat said Tuesday that cross-Taiwan Strait relations are China's "internal affairs."
Visit a show of support for Taiwan, ex-NATO chief says CNA 04 Jan 2023 -- Former NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said Wednesday his ongoing visit to Taiwan was a show of "strong support" for the country's self-determination, freedom, and democracy.
Taiwan expands sanctions against Russia, Belarus CNA 04 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) on Wednesday announced the expansion of its sanctions against Russia and its ally Belarus, effective immediately, in a bid to prevent the two countries from using Taiwan-made high-tech items for military purposes in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.
4 detained in espionage case involving retired Air Force captain CNA 04 Jan 2023 -- A retired Air Force captain and three active military officers in the Air Force and Navy were detained in Kaohsiung on Wednesday on suspicion of spying for communist China, while three other active officers in the military were released on bail.
Kyiv receives first generators bought with funds donated by Taiwan CNA 03 Jan 2023 -- The capital city of Ukraine has recently received the first batch of high-capacity generators bought with Taiwanese government-donated funds last month, a Ukrainian parliamentarian told CNA Tuesday.
Taiwan reports 25,009 COVID-19 cases, 22 deaths CNA 03 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command (CECC) reported 25,009 new COVID-19 infections and 22 deaths from the disease Tuesday.
Transit passengers from China to undergo tighter COVID controls CNA 03 Jan 2023 -- Starting Jan. 6, travelers from China who transit through Hong Kong or Macau will be required to present a COVID-negative test result before they can enter Taiwan, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) announced Tuesday.
1st locally built submarine prototype to be tested in September CNA 03 Jan 2023 -- A prototype of Taiwan's first locally built submarine is set to be completed for testing in September, marking a milestone in the nation's Indigenous Defense Submarine program, chairman of domestic shipbuilder CSBC Corp. Cheng Wen-lon (鄭文隆) said Tuesday.
Ex-NATO secretary-general arrives in Taiwan CNA 03 Jan 2023 -- Former NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday morning for a three-day visit, during which he will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文), according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Cross-Straits efforts key to reunification People's Daily 03 Jan 2023 -- Senior officials on the Chinese mainland have called for joint efforts from both sides of the Taiwan Straits to work toward national reunification and fight against separatist activities and external intervention in affairs regarding Taiwan.
New head of Taiwan Affairs Office calls for joint efforts for national reunification in New Year message Global Times 03 Jan 2023 -- A senior official on the Chinese mainland called for joint efforts from both sides of the Taiwan Straits to work toward the goals of national rejuvenation and national reunification.
Mainland official calls for joint efforts for national reunification across Taiwan Strait People's Daily 03 Jan 2023 -- A senior official on the Chinese mainland has called for joint efforts from both sides of the Taiwan Strait to work toward the goals of national rejuvenation and national reunification.
Taiwan reports 16,602 new COVID-19 cases, 26 deaths CNA 02 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command (CECC) reported 16,602 new COVID-19 infections and 26 deaths from the disease Monday.
28% of travelers from China COVID-positive on first day of border testing CNA 02 Jan 2023 -- Over one quarter of the more than 500 travelers who arrived in Taiwan from China and were tested for COVID-19 under new border measures on Sunday returned positive results, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Full text of President Tsai's 2023 New Year Day's address CNA 02 Jan 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) delivered her 2023 New Year's Day address on Sunday, in which she outlined four major goals for the coming year: caring for the public welfare, maintaining Taiwan's economic momentum, safeguarding Taiwan's national security, and fulfilling Taiwan's responsibilities toward the region.
MAC off to testy start with new head of China's Taiwan Affairs Office CNA 02 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has hit back at remarks by the new chief of China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) by urging Beijing to halt its "coercion" of Taiwan if it wants to create conditions for more positive interactions across the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan reports 25,270 new COVID-19 cases, 20 deaths CNA 01 Jan 2023 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command (CECC) reported 25,270 new COVID-19 infections and 20 deaths from the disease Sunday, one of which was an imported case involving a Taiwanese man who was a long-time resident of New Zealand.
Taiwan begins testing travelers from China for COVID-19 CNA 01 Jan 2023 -- Passengers traveling to Taiwan directly from China were required to provide a saliva sample for a COVID-19 test upon arrival starting on Sunday, and passengers on a flight from Xiamen were the first to be subject to the new procedures.
President Tsai offers to help China curb COVID surge in New Year address CNA 01 Jan 2023 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) in her New Year Address on Sunday offered Taiwan's help to China in dealing with a recent surge in COVID-19 infections if Beijing requests assistance, so that more Chinese people can enjoy a healthy and safe 2023.

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January 2023 - Taiwan Special Weapons News