China intensifies military presence around Taiwan amid U.S. tensions

In late 2024, tensions between China and Taiwan heightened significantly as China conducted multiple military operations in close proximity to Taiwan. The People's Liberation Army deployed over 90 warships and dozens of aircraft around Taiwan from December 9 to December 11. This increase in military activity was accompanied by an earlier demonstration of power in late October when the USS Higgins transited the Taiwan Strait, prompting a lesser response from China that involved only 14 aircraft. Following the Chinese Lunar New Year, on February 27, the military executed unannounced live-fire drills that were unprecedented for that season, aiming to destabilize the region and test responses from Taiwan and its allies. This was further evidenced by a notable increase in median line crossings by Chinese aircraft, which nearly doubled from March 17 to March 21, 2025. Chinese officials justified this activity as a response to perceived changes in U.S. policy toward Taiwan, emphasizing the belief that the United States was misusing Taiwan to suppress China. The need for the United States to enhance its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities became critical to understanding China's strategic objectives as they continue to employ gray-zone tactics to challenge Taiwan’s sovereignty. Additionally, enhancements in navy technology, particularly through artificial intelligence and drone development, are seen as vital to support U.S. operations in the Pacific. A review of lessons learned from autonomous operations in the Arabian Gulf is being utilized as a framework for bolstering capabilities against potential Chinese intimidation efforts. The shifting military posture by China is strategic in preparing for potential conflict scenarios, signaling a deeper commitment to testing U.S. resolve in the region and the complexities surrounding Taiwan's future.