China’s military emphasised its intent to crack down on corruption in 2024 as turmoil continues to ripple through the upper echelons of the world’s largest armed forces.

China: People's Liberation Army declares war against corruption

China: Xi seeks to root out corruption, prepare military for combat

US cyber experts and government officials have warned that Chinese hackers have deeply infiltrated the country’s critical infrastructure, including water, power, communication and transport entities.

As per a report published in the Washington Post, these hackers are directly linked with China’s People's Liberation Army (PLA).

The aim of this expansive Chinese intrusion is clear: To limit the USA’s ability to play a larger role in Asian conflicts, especially in a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan and to cause chaos within the US and stir instability in the country.

<h2>Hawaii: A special target</h2>

The Post reported that a Hawaiian water utility was amongst the various entities targeted by the Chinese hackers.

Hawaii is where the US stations its troops and warships meant for patrolling the Indo-Pacific area. The island also serves as the headquarters of the US Indo-Pacific Command.

By interfering with Hawaii’s critical infrastructure, China likely wants to jeopardise the USA’s ability to intervene in a conflict involving Taiwan.

“This is stuff they pretty clearly see as relevant to a Taiwan scenario,” Joe McReynolds, a China security studies fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, was quoted as saying by The Post.

<h2>Dangerous designs</h2>

According to Chinese military officials, the PLA plans to coincide their cyber attacks on enemy targets with aerial strikes using the air force.

Hackers would target satellite networks, along with military logistics systems, of the enemy while airstrikes will reduce their military equipment to ashes.

Watch:&nbsp;Mandiant: Chinese hackers attack several government agencies

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“If Beijing feared that a major conflict with the United States was imminent, it almost certainly would consider undertaking aggressive cyber operations against US homeland critical infrastructure and military assets worldwide,” the Office of the Director of National Intelligence was quoted as saying.

<h2>'Win a war without fighting'</h2>

The sophisticated cyber attack regime aims to provide China with the ability to win a war without even fighting it.

“It is very clear that Chinese attempts to compromise critical infrastructure are in part to pre-position themselves to be able to disrupt or destroy that critical infrastructure in the event of a conflict," said Brandon Wales, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-cyber-threat-dragon-is-targeting-indian-telecom-and-defence-392350">Also read:&nbsp;Chinese cyber threat: Dragon is targeting Indian telecom and defence</a>

In August, Chinese hackers tried to infiltrate the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which operates the state’s electrical grid, demonstrating their will to target civilian infrastructure in the event of a conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

US cyber experts and government officials have warned that Chinese hackers have deeply infiltrated the country’s critical infrastructure, including water, power, communication and transport entities.

US cyber experts and government officials have warned that Chinese hackers have deeply infiltrated the country’s critical infrastructure, including water, power, communication and transport entities. As per a report published in the Washington Post, these hackers are directly linked with China’s People's Liberation Army (PLA). The aim of this expansive Chinese intrusion is clear: To limit the USA’s ability to play a larger role in Asian conflicts, especially in a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan and to cause chaos within the US and stir instability in the country. Hawaii: A special target The Post reported that a Hawaiian water utility was amongst the various entities targeted by the Chinese hackers. Hawaii is where the US stations its troops and warships meant for patrolling the Indo-Pacific area. The island also serves as the headquarters of the US Indo-Pacific Command. By interfering with Hawaii’s critical infrastructure, China likely wants to jeopardise the USA’s ability to intervene in a conflict involving Taiwan. “This is stuff they pretty clearly see as relevant to a Taiwan scenario,” Joe McReynolds, a China security studies fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, was quoted as saying by The Post. Dangerous designs According to Chinese military officials, the PLA plans to coincide their cyber attacks on enemy targets with aerial strikes using the air force. Hackers would target satellite networks, along with military logistics systems, of the enemy while airstrikes will reduce their military equipment to ashes. Watch: Mandiant: Chinese hackers attack several government agencies × “If Beijing feared that a major conflict with the United States was imminent, it almost certainly would consider undertaking aggressive cyber operations against US homeland critical infrastructure and military assets worldwide,” the Office of the Director of National Intelligence was quoted as saying. 'Win a war without fighting' The sophisticated cyber attack regime aims to provide China with the ability to win a war without even fighting it. “It is very clear that Chinese attempts to compromise critical infrastructure are in part to pre-position themselves to be able to disrupt or destroy that critical infrastructure in the event of a conflict," said Brandon Wales, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Also read: Chinese cyber threat: Dragon is targeting Indian telecom and defence In August, Chinese hackers tried to infiltrate the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which operates the state’s electrical grid, demonstrating their will to target civilian infrastructure in the event of a conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

PLA-backed hackers infiltrated USA’s water, power and communication entities: Report

China's People's Liberation Army has urged its military personnel to be careful about who they associate with, saying that socializing with the wrong people is a key reason some leaders have been removed from key positions.

China's PLA issues warning to cadres

In a bid to counter China’s presence in the Indian Ocean Region, India is making efforts to expand its influence by providing maritime and air support to its neighbours in the region, according to a report.

In Oman, the Indian Navy has prepared a support base in Duqm port for maintenance, repair and overhaul of Indian ships as well as provide berthing, fuel and rest facilities in the vicinity and travelling beyond, Hindustan Times newspaper reported citing sources.

The support base has already been operationalised, the report states.

In Mauritius, India has built an airstrip in north Agalega islands, around 1,050km north of Port Louis, to provide maritime security to the island nation as well as to help protect its tourism assets in the region.

The Indian Navy will be sending at least 50 officers and guards to man the airstrip, which will have the capability of handling Boeing P-8I surveillance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft of the Indian Armed Forces.

<h2>China's increased presence in IOR</h2>

Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Mauritius counterpart Pravind Jugnath&nbsp;on September 8 as he was a special invitee to the G20 Summit in the capital Delhi.

The renewed Indian response stems from concerns over the Chinese surveillance vessel Shi Yan 6 entering the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) on September 23. It is expected to dock at Colombo on September 29.

New Delhi has repeatedly raised concerns over the evolving maritime threat emanating from China’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood, as Peoples Liberation Army increases its foray into the region.

The Indian establishment fears that the vessel will be deployed to patrol the Indian Ocean Region by 2025-26 as the Chinese Navy seeks to rapidly expand its formidable surface and subsurface naval assets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-reviving-cold-war-underwater-surveillance-network-to-tackle-china-638422">US reviving Cold War underwater surveillance network to tackle China</a>

According to data by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Chinese vessels in IOR have been increasing every year, with 24 Chinese ships entering the region to date in 2023.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-raised-canadas-claims-of-sikh-separatist-leaders-death-with-modi-at-g20-ft-report-638391">US talking to India about Canada murder, no 'special exemption': Biden&nbsp;adviser</a>

It comes after reports mentioned that the Indian Navy is bolstering its fleet strength in the Indian Ocean and now plans to have at least 175 warships by 2035 to monitor the IOR.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a bid to counter China’s presence in the Indian Ocean Region, India is making efforts to expand its influence by providing maritime and air support to its neighbours in the region, according to a report.

In a bid to counter China’s presence in the Indian Ocean Region, India is making efforts to expand its influence by providing maritime and air support to its neighbours in the region, according to a report. In Oman, the Indian Navy has prepared a support base in Duqm port for maintenance, repair and overhaul of Indian ships as well as provide berthing, fuel and rest facilities in the vicinity and travelling beyond, Hindustan Times newspaper reported citing sources. The support base has already been operationalised, the report states. In Mauritius, India has built an airstrip in north Agalega islands, around 1,050km north of Port Louis, to provide maritime security to the island nation as well as to help protect its tourism assets in the region. The Indian Navy will be sending at least 50 officers and guards to man the airstrip, which will have the capability of handling Boeing P-8I surveillance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft of the Indian Armed Forces. China's increased presence in IOR Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Mauritius counterpart Pravind Jugnath on September 8 as he was a special invitee to the G20 Summit in the capital Delhi. The renewed Indian response stems from concerns over the Chinese surveillance vessel Shi Yan 6 entering the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) on September 23. It is expected to dock at Colombo on September 29. New Delhi has repeatedly raised concerns over the evolving maritime threat emanating from China’s presence in the Indian neighbourhood, as Peoples Liberation Army increases its foray into the region. The Indian establishment fears that the vessel will be deployed to patrol the Indian Ocean Region by 2025-26 as the Chinese Navy seeks to rapidly expand its formidable surface and subsurface naval assets. Also read | US reviving Cold War underwater surveillance network to tackle China According to data by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Chinese vessels in IOR have been increasing every year, with 24 Chinese ships entering the region to date in 2023. Also read | US talking to India about Canada murder, no 'special exemption': Biden adviser It comes after reports mentioned that the Indian Navy is bolstering its fleet strength in the Indian Ocean and now plans to have at least 175 warships by 2035 to monitor the IOR. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

From Mauritius to Oman, India expands sphere of influence to counter China’s presence in Indian Ocean Region

The United States government believes that Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu has been placed under investigation by Beijing amid questions about his more than two-weeks-long absence from public view, said a report by Financial Times citing US officials, on Friday (September 15).&nbsp;

The FT report also follows a report by Reuters, on Thursday (Sep 14) which, citing three officials with direct knowledge of the matter, said that Li, 65, was abruptly pulled out of a meeting with Vietnamese defence leaders last week.&nbsp;

<h2>What do US officials believe about the disappearance?</h2>

In the latest sign of political turmoil involving high-ranking officials in China, three US officials and two people who were briefed on the intelligence in Washington concluded that Li has been “stripped of his responsibilities as defence minister.”

However, people briefed on the matter did not say what led President Joe Biden’s administration to come to this conclusion, the FT report added.

The supposed speculations by officials in Washington were further stoked by Rahm Emanuel, the US ambassador to Japan, on Friday, after he took to X and wrote, “1st: Defense Minister Li Shangfu hasn’t been seen or heard from in 3 weeks. 2nd: He was a no-show for his trip to Vietnam. Now: He’s absent from his scheduled meeting with the Singaporean Chief of Navy because he was placed on house arrest???”

The post was also accompanied by the hashtag #MysteryInBeijingBuilding after he made a reference to William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet and said “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.”

It was not immediately clear which meeting with the Singaporean Chief of Navy&nbsp;Emanuel&nbsp;was referring to. As per Reuters, the Singapore Navy’s Rear Admiral Sean Wat was in China from September 4 to 9 where he met with PLA Navy commander Dong Jun and other Navy leaders, said the city-state’s defence ministry on its website.&nbsp;

But there was no mention of him meeting or being scheduled to meet Li.

Similarly, the US official, last week wrote that China’s government was “now resembling Agatha Christie’s novel And Then There Were None”.&nbsp;

He added, “First, Foreign Minister Qin Gang goes missing, then the Rocket Force commanders go missing, and now Defence Minister Li Shangfu hasn’t been seen in public for two weeks,” with the hashtag #MysteryInBeijingBuilding.

Meanwhile, officials in Washington and Beijing are yet to respond to the speculations about Li’s abrupt disappearance.&nbsp;

<h2>When was Li last seen?</h2>

The 65-year-old Chinese defence official was last seen in Beijing on August 29 delivering a key-note address at a security forum with African nations. Notably, Li’s role as China’s defence minister is mainly responsible for defence diplomacy as opposed to actually commanding combat forces.&nbsp;

In 2018, the US had sanctioned Li for buying weapons from Russia’s largest arms exporter, Rosoboronexport.

<h2>Chinese ministers and mysterious disappearances</h2>

Li’s supposed disappearance comes after China’s unexplained replacement of its foreign minister, Qin Gang, in July after his prolonged absence from public view.&nbsp;

China also replaced the head of its Rocket Force – an army unit that oversees its nuclear arsenal – in July after its former commander Li Yuchao not seen in public for weeks before the change.&nbsp;

“Li’s disappearance, following so shortly after Qin, speaks to how mysterious Chinese elite politics can be to the outside world,” said Alfred Wu, associate professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

He added, “China under (President) Xi simply does not feel a need to explain itself to the world.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The United States government believes that Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu has been placed under investigation by Beijing amid questions about his more than two-weeks-long absence from public view, said a report by Financial Times citing US officials, on Friday (September 15).

The United States government believes that Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu has been placed under investigation by Beijing amid questions about his more than two-weeks-long absence from public view, said a report by Financial Times citing US officials, on Friday (September 15). The FT report also follows a report by Reuters, on Thursday (Sep 14) which, citing three officials with direct knowledge of the matter, said that Li, 65, was abruptly pulled out of a meeting with Vietnamese defence leaders last week. What do US officials believe about the disappearance? In the latest sign of political turmoil involving high-ranking officials in China, three US officials and two people who were briefed on the intelligence in Washington concluded that Li has been “stripped of his responsibilities as defence minister.” However, people briefed on the matter did not say what led President Joe Biden’s administration to come to this conclusion, the FT report added. The supposed speculations by officials in Washington were further stoked by Rahm Emanuel, the US ambassador to Japan, on Friday, after he took to X and wrote, “1st: Defense Minister Li Shangfu hasn’t been seen or heard from in 3 weeks. 2nd: He was a no-show for his trip to Vietnam. Now: He’s absent from his scheduled meeting with the Singaporean Chief of Navy because he was placed on house arrest???” The post was also accompanied by the hashtag #MysteryInBeijingBuilding after he made a reference to William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet and said “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” It was not immediately clear which meeting with the Singaporean Chief of Navy Emanuel was referring to. As per Reuters, the Singapore Navy’s Rear Admiral Sean Wat was in China from September 4 to 9 where he met with PLA Navy commander Dong Jun and other Navy leaders, said the city-state’s defence ministry on its website. But there was no mention of him meeting or being scheduled to meet Li. Similarly, the US official, last week wrote that China’s government was “now resembling Agatha Christie’s novel And Then There Were None”. He added, “First, Foreign Minister Qin Gang goes missing, then the Rocket Force commanders go missing, and now Defence Minister Li Shangfu hasn’t been seen in public for two weeks,” with the hashtag #MysteryInBeijingBuilding. Meanwhile, officials in Washington and Beijing are yet to respond to the speculations about Li’s abrupt disappearance. When was Li last seen? The 65-year-old Chinese defence official was last seen in Beijing on August 29 delivering a key-note address at a security forum with African nations. Notably, Li’s role as China’s defence minister is mainly responsible for defence diplomacy as opposed to actually commanding combat forces. In 2018, the US had sanctioned Li for buying weapons from Russia’s largest arms exporter, Rosoboronexport. Chinese ministers and mysterious disappearances Li’s supposed disappearance comes after China’s unexplained replacement of its foreign minister, Qin Gang, in July after his prolonged absence from public view. China also replaced the head of its Rocket Force – an army unit that oversees its nuclear arsenal – in July after its former commander Li Yuchao not seen in public for weeks before the change. “Li’s disappearance, following so shortly after Qin, speaks to how mysterious Chinese elite politics can be to the outside world,” said Alfred Wu, associate professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, as quoted by Reuters. He added, “China under (President) Xi simply does not feel a need to explain itself to the world.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US believes Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu is under investigation by Beijing: Report

The Taiwan government’s new logo to mark the upcoming Double Tenth holiday unveiled&nbsp;last week&nbsp;has sparked a debate amid rumours that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) may try to change the self-governing island’s official name, the Republic of China, reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP), on Sunday (September 10).&nbsp;

The speculations and supposed move could provoke Beijing which has ramped up military and political pressure on Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island.

<h2>What is the logo about?</h2>

Last week, organisers of this year’s Double Tenth celebrations which will take place on October 10 revealed the logo which features two “10” characters and its slogan in Chinese reads: “Democratic Taiwan, resilience and sustainability,” as per the SCMP. While the words in English underneath read: “2023 Taiwan National Day”.&nbsp;

However, none of the versions mentions the Republic of China, which has drawn criticism from the Beijing-friendly main opposition Kuomintang party.&nbsp;

The day, for which the logo was unveiled, marks the beginning of the 1911 revolution that led to the fall of the Qing dynasty and the founding of the Republic of China, which is celebrated in Taiwan every year since Nationalists were defeated by the Communists in the Chinese Civil War in 1949 and fled to the island.&nbsp;

<h2>Opposition party calls the move ‘absurd’</h2>

“The ROC national day celebration is a very important event and it is absurd for the government to do away with the ROC title on this occasion,” said Lin Te-fu, former deputy secretary general of the Kuomintang party, as quoted by the SCMP.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Taiwan People’s Party caucus in the legislature suggested that the English be amended to “ROC (Taiwan) National Day” after saying it gives an impression that the DPP government is pushing for the independence of the island.&nbsp;

<h2>Is it about the upcoming elections?</h2>

Others have perceived the move as a “gimmick to sway votes” in favour of Vice-President William Lai Ching-te and the DPP’s candidate for the upcoming presidential elections which are set to take place in January 2024.&nbsp;

“The ruling party is switching back and forth in using that reference, sometimes calling it Taiwan and other times ROC – strictly depending on what it wants to achieve,” said the head of the pro-independence Formosa Alliance Kuo Pei-hung, as quoted by SCMP.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Nothing to worry about’: Govt responds to criticism</h2>

A day after the logo was released, Hua Ching-chun, deputy interior minister, said that they have used ROC “in front of the general title of the entire event. So there is nothing to worry about and no political action either”.&nbsp;

Additionally, Vice-Premier Cheng Wen-tsan said that a “different presentation” of the island’s name “no way changes the fact that we are the ROC government”.

Beijing continues to maintain its military and political pressure for democratically-elected Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island.

The People’s Liberation Army has intensified military activity near the island, particularly after then-United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taipei which Beijing perceived as a violation of its sovereignty. 
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The Taiwan government’s new logo to mark the upcoming Double Tenth holiday unveiled last week has sparked a debate amid rumours that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) may try to change the self-governing island’s official name, the Republic of China, reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP), on Sunday (September 10).

The Taiwan government’s new logo to mark the upcoming Double Tenth holiday unveiled last week has sparked a debate amid rumours that the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) may try to change the self-governing island’s official name, the Republic of China, reported the South China Morning Post (SCMP), on Sunday (September 10). The speculations and supposed move could provoke Beijing which has ramped up military and political pressure on Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island. What is the logo about? Last week, organisers of this year’s Double Tenth celebrations which will take place on October 10 revealed the logo which features two “10” characters and its slogan in Chinese reads: “Democratic Taiwan, resilience and sustainability,” as per the SCMP. While the words in English underneath read: “2023 Taiwan National Day”. However, none of the versions mentions the Republic of China, which has drawn criticism from the Beijing-friendly main opposition Kuomintang party. The day, for which the logo was unveiled, marks the beginning of the 1911 revolution that led to the fall of the Qing dynasty and the founding of the Republic of China, which is celebrated in Taiwan every year since Nationalists were defeated by the Communists in the Chinese Civil War in 1949 and fled to the island. Opposition party calls the move ‘absurd’ “The ROC national day celebration is a very important event and it is absurd for the government to do away with the ROC title on this occasion,” said Lin Te-fu, former deputy secretary general of the Kuomintang party, as quoted by the SCMP. Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Taiwan People’s Party caucus in the legislature suggested that the English be amended to “ROC (Taiwan) National Day” after saying it gives an impression that the DPP government is pushing for the independence of the island. Is it about the upcoming elections? Others have perceived the move as a “gimmick to sway votes” in favour of Vice-President William Lai Ching-te and the DPP’s candidate for the upcoming presidential elections which are set to take place in January 2024. “The ruling party is switching back and forth in using that reference, sometimes calling it Taiwan and other times ROC – strictly depending on what it wants to achieve,” said the head of the pro-independence Formosa Alliance Kuo Pei-hung, as quoted by SCMP. ‘Nothing to worry about’: Govt responds to criticism A day after the logo was released, Hua Ching-chun, deputy interior minister, said that they have used ROC “in front of the general title of the entire event. So there is nothing to worry about and no political action either”. Additionally, Vice-Premier Cheng Wen-tsan said that a “different presentation” of the island’s name “no way changes the fact that we are the ROC government”. Beijing continues to maintain its military and political pressure for democratically-elected Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty and reiterated calls for reunification with the self-governing island. The People’s Liberation Army has intensified military activity near the island, particularly after then-United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taipei which Beijing perceived as a violation of its sovereignty. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan’s official name omitted from Double Tenth logo, sparks criticism: Report

China has aired a documentary to mark People's Liberation Army's 96th anniversary showcasing its readiness to fight 'at any second'. This is being seen as a warning to Taiwan, which China considers its own territory. In the documentary, Chinese soldiers have been seen pledging to sacrifice their lives if necessary.

The eight-part documentary is called 'Zhu Meng' or 'chasing dreams'. The first part was aired on Tuesday (August 1) on state broadcaster CCTV.

According to a report by South China Morning Post (SCMP), the documentary also shows pilot of China's most advanced stealth fighter jet vowing to launch suicide attack if necessary.

“My fighter would be my last missile, rushing towards the enemy if in a real battle I had used up all my ammunition,” said Li Peng as quoted by SCMP. Li Peng is reportedly a J-20 pilot from Wang Hai Squadron. It is a unit of PLA's eastern theatre command.

The Eastern Theatre Command is China's primary force against Taiwan.

China considers Taiwan to be it own territory and has not ruled out use of force to retake the self-ruled island nation. Chinese drones and even fighter jets regularly enter the Air Defence Zone (ADZ) of Taiwan.

“If war broke out and the conditions were too difficult to safely remove the naval mines in actual combat, we will use our own bodies to clear a safe pathway for our landing forces,” says Zuo Feng, a frogman of the PLA Navy’s minesweeper unit, in the documentary as quoted by SCMP.

The documentary has reportedly featured personal stories of PLA soldiers across services and locations. It also shows footage of military exercises. It has reportedly been reiterated that “the centennial goal of the PLA must be realised”, an apparent reference to Taiwan.

SCMP said that the documentary series offers 'restricted' view of PLA's operation manoeuvres like gaining air superiority, information technology suppression and sea control before an amphibious attack.

China carried out Joint Sword, an exercise that took place around Taiwan. Parts of the documentary focus on the exercise too. The exercise was carried out in April when Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen visited the US.

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China has aired a documentary to mark People's Liberation Army's 96th anniversary showcasing its readiness to fight 'at any second'. This is being seen as a warning to Taiwan, which China considers its own territory.

China has aired a documentary to mark People's Liberation Army's 96th anniversary showcasing its readiness to fight 'at any second'. This is being seen as a warning to Taiwan, which China considers its own territory. In the documentary, Chinese soldiers have been seen pledging to sacrifice their lives if necessary. The eight-part documentary is called 'Zhu Meng' or 'chasing dreams'. The first part was aired on Tuesday (August 1) on state broadcaster CCTV. According to a report by South China Morning Post (SCMP), the documentary also shows pilot of China's most advanced stealth fighter jet vowing to launch suicide attack if necessary. “My fighter would be my last missile, rushing towards the enemy if in a real battle I had used up all my ammunition,” said Li Peng as quoted by SCMP. Li Peng is reportedly a J-20 pilot from Wang Hai Squadron. It is a unit of PLA's eastern theatre command. The Eastern Theatre Command is China's primary force against Taiwan. China considers Taiwan to be it own territory and has not ruled out use of force to retake the self-ruled island nation. Chinese drones and even fighter jets regularly enter the Air Defence Zone (ADZ) of Taiwan. “If war broke out and the conditions were too difficult to safely remove the naval mines in actual combat, we will use our own bodies to clear a safe pathway for our landing forces,” says Zuo Feng, a frogman of the PLA Navy’s minesweeper unit, in the documentary as quoted by SCMP. The documentary has reportedly featured personal stories of PLA soldiers across services and locations. It also shows footage of military exercises. It has reportedly been reiterated that “the centennial goal of the PLA must be realised”, an apparent reference to Taiwan. SCMP said that the documentary series offers 'restricted' view of PLA's operation manoeuvres like gaining air superiority, information technology suppression and sea control before an amphibious attack. China carried out Joint Sword, an exercise that took place around Taiwan. Parts of the documentary focus on the exercise too. The exercise was carried out in April when Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen visited the US. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China airs documentary showing preparations for Taiwan attack at short notice: Report

China is commemorating the 96th anniversary of founding the People's Liberation Army - August 1st is a national holiday in China. The purpose of the annual ceremony is to acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices made by the nation's military services.

China celebrates 96th Army Day, Chinese Defence Minister General Li Shagfu addresses event

Taiwan's defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday (July 12) that the Chinese air force and navy staged a second day of large-scale exercises with fighter jets, bombers, and warships near the island nation's south and southwest.&nbsp;

Chinese national television broadcaster CCTV reported that the military tested helicopters and drones in the rescue of wounded soldiers from islands in a first-of-its-kind drill. The drill was carried out by the command responsible for overseeing the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;

It's not certain when the exercises took place.&nbsp;CCTV's military channel reported on Monday that the exercises were conducted by the People's Liberation Army Eastern Theatre Command on an unidentified island off the east coast of Zhejiang province.&nbsp;

The CCTV report said that the test was focused on speeding up the evacuation of wounded soldiers from "medium- to long-distance islands" in both peace and wartime. The exercise used helicopters, which were coordinated by land and air forces.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-lawmakers-urges-further-scrutiny-of-fukushima-nuclear-wastewater-after-iaeas-nod-614612">South Korean lawmakers urges further scrutiny of Fukushima nuclear wastewater after IAEA's nod</a>&nbsp;

Beijing views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. It also claims that Taiwan will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence.&nbsp;

In case China invades Taiwan, experts have said that it would put a massive impact on the global supply chains as the island is a major supplier of semiconductors—a key component of nearly all modern electronics.

An act of invasion will also lead to a Western fury, inciting China's isolation and pushing Beijing and Washington closer than ever to a direct military conflict. It put will also put an end to Taiwan's hard-won democratic liberties. &nbsp;

In a report published by South China Morning Post, some military analysts said that the exercise addressed a PLA vulnerability – evacuation skills.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-election-commission-recommends-pm-hopeful-pita-limjaroenrats-suspension-as-mp-614554">Thailand: Election Commission recommends PM hopeful Pita Limjaroenrat's suspension as MP</a>&nbsp;

<h2>China's focus on 'golden rescue time'&nbsp;</h2>

The aim of such focused exercises was to prepare for possible military conflicts near coastal islands and in the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;A video caption shown in the report read: "Due to geographical restrictions, medical evacuation of officers and soldiers is carried out over long distances and difficult."&nbsp;

The video showed that the drones were utilised for reconnaissance and pinpointing the positions of the simulated wounded soldiers in the practice and the wounded were seen in the footage being transported by a helicopter and transferred to a command hospital.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China's hidden debt: A&nbsp;ticking time bomb

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The report quoted Su Xingliang, who is the director of the brigade's support department, as saying: "In this medical and logistics exercise, we introduced air mobility forces for the first time, which greatly shortened the evacuation and treatment time for the wounded."&nbsp;

According to Su, the exercise improved the medical treatment abilities of the coastal forces and future drills would involve working with local medical forces to ensure that every wounded person could be treated within the "golden rescue time".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan's defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday (July 12) that the Chinese air force and navy staged a second day of large-scale exercises with fighter jets, bombers, and warships near the island nation's south and southwest.

Taiwan's defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday (July 12) that the Chinese air force and navy staged a second day of large-scale exercises with fighter jets, bombers, and warships near the island nation's south and southwest. Chinese national television broadcaster CCTV reported that the military tested helicopters and drones in the rescue of wounded soldiers from islands in a first-of-its-kind drill. The drill was carried out by the command responsible for overseeing the Taiwan Strait. It's not certain when the exercises took place. CCTV's military channel reported on Monday that the exercises were conducted by the People's Liberation Army Eastern Theatre Command on an unidentified island off the east coast of Zhejiang province. The CCTV report said that the test was focused on speeding up the evacuation of wounded soldiers from "medium- to long-distance islands" in both peace and wartime. The exercise used helicopters, which were coordinated by land and air forces. Also read: South Korean lawmakers urges further scrutiny of Fukushima nuclear wastewater after IAEA's nod Beijing views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. It also claims that Taiwan will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. In case China invades Taiwan, experts have said that it would put a massive impact on the global supply chains as the island is a major supplier of semiconductors—a key component of nearly all modern electronics. An act of invasion will also lead to a Western fury, inciting China's isolation and pushing Beijing and Washington closer than ever to a direct military conflict. It put will also put an end to Taiwan's hard-won democratic liberties. In a report published by South China Morning Post, some military analysts said that the exercise addressed a PLA vulnerability – evacuation skills. Also read: Thailand: Election Commission recommends PM hopeful Pita Limjaroenrat's suspension as MP China's focus on 'golden rescue time' The aim of such focused exercises was to prepare for possible military conflicts near coastal islands and in the Taiwan Strait. A video caption shown in the report read: "Due to geographical restrictions, medical evacuation of officers and soldiers is carried out over long distances and difficult." The video showed that the drones were utilised for reconnaissance and pinpointing the positions of the simulated wounded soldiers in the practice and the wounded were seen in the footage being transported by a helicopter and transferred to a command hospital. Watch: China's hidden debt: A ticking time bomb × The report quoted Su Xingliang, who is the director of the brigade's support department, as saying: "In this medical and logistics exercise, we introduced air mobility forces for the first time, which greatly shortened the evacuation and treatment time for the wounded." According to Su, the exercise improved the medical treatment abilities of the coastal forces and future drills would involve working with local medical forces to ensure that every wounded person could be treated within the "golden rescue time". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PLA tests evacuation skills with helicopters and drones. Is China preparing for Taiwan war?

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Oceangate suspends operations amid safety concerns, Chinese President Xi Jinping says PLA must 'dare to fight', Russia and Ukraine announce prisoner swap, Russian envoy slams council's 'bid to Ukrainize session'.

Oceangate suspends operations amid safety concerns | Xi says PLA must 'dare to fight'

China's top military body has come out with a code of conduct for the serving and retired professionals of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) that seemingly controls their social lives. This set of rules was passed by Central Military Commission chaired by President Xi Jinping in an effort to further tighten control.

Chinese military issues 'unprecedented' rules for top commanders

Authorities in China on Wednesday (May 17) issued a fine of milions of yuan to a comedy company after a member made an oblique joke about the People's Liberation Army (PLA) during a stand-up act. The company has been threatened with further legal action. AFP reported that an audio posted on China's social media network Weibo showed Li Haoshi, who performs under the name House, referring to a PLA slogan during a show in Beijing on Saturday.

Li was talking about his pet dogs chasing a squirrel when he referred to the slogan "Good style of work, capable of winning battles".

<h2>Authorities swing into action&nbsp;</h2>

Municipal Culture and Tourism Bureau in Beijing said it had investigated the comedy company after a report from a member of the public. The bureau said it found the joke had broken the law and "caused a bad social impact"

Xiaoguo Culture Media was fined 14.7 million yuan ($2.13mn) and had all its future performances suspended indefinitely in both Beijing and Shanghai.

Watch | Taiwan and its challenges with China, will US support Taiwan like Ukraine?

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Beijing police took to Weibo to say that an investigation had been opened into Li "in accordance with the law"

Under President Xi Jinping, the space for dissent has shrunk dramatically in China, especially over the past decade. Online censorship has been tightened by the authorities and they have cracked down on independent media and artistic expression.&nbsp;

Xi has promoted a muscular, hardline nationalism and has made boosting the capabilities of the armed forces a political and economic priority, extolling their strength in domestic propaganda campaigns.

Li and Xiaoguo had already apologised for their performance. They described the particular joke as an "inappropriate metaphor".&nbsp;

"After the performance that day, we immediately criticised House seriously, asked him to reflect on himself, and stopped all his subsequent acting work indefinitely," a Xiaoguo statement posted on Monday said.

<h2>'National feelings'&nbsp;hurt</h2>

However, the bureau said that the joke had broken a regulation that says that such performances should not "hurt national feelings" or "damage national honour and interests". It said the show should have been stopped when the rule was breached, further compounding the punishment.

"The People's Army is the strong guardian of national security and people's peace," the bureau said.

"We will never allow any company or individual to wantonly denigrate the glorious image of the People's Army on the stage of the capital, (and) hurt the deep feelings of the people towards their army."

AFP reported that a hashtag connected to the issue was the most searched on Weibo on Wednesday. There reportedly were more than 700 million hits.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-choosing-india-over-china-big-meet-in-delhi-to-decide-teslas-road-to-india-593390">Elon Musk choosing India over China? Big meet to decide Tesla's road to New Delhi</a>

Many of the comments supported the punishment, although Weibo is heavily censored and problematic content is usually removed quickly.

"We could do without stand-up comedians and stars, but we could not do without the people's own army!" one comment said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in China on Wednesday (May 17) issued a fine of milions of yuan to a comedy company after a member made an oblique joke about the People's Liberation Army (PLA) during a stand-up act.

Authorities in China on Wednesday (May 17) issued a fine of milions of yuan to a comedy company after a member made an oblique joke about the People's Liberation Army (PLA) during a stand-up act. The company has been threatened with further legal action. AFP reported that an audio posted on China's social media network Weibo showed Li Haoshi, who performs under the name House, referring to a PLA slogan during a show in Beijing on Saturday. Li was talking about his pet dogs chasing a squirrel when he referred to the slogan "Good style of work, capable of winning battles". Authorities swing into action Municipal Culture and Tourism Bureau in Beijing said it had investigated the comedy company after a report from a member of the public. The bureau said it found the joke had broken the law and "caused a bad social impact" Xiaoguo Culture Media was fined 14.7 million yuan ($2.13mn) and had all its future performances suspended indefinitely in both Beijing and Shanghai. Watch | Taiwan and its challenges with China, will US support Taiwan like Ukraine? × Beijing police took to Weibo to say that an investigation had been opened into Li "in accordance with the law" Under President Xi Jinping, the space for dissent has shrunk dramatically in China, especially over the past decade. Online censorship has been tightened by the authorities and they have cracked down on independent media and artistic expression. Xi has promoted a muscular, hardline nationalism and has made boosting the capabilities of the armed forces a political and economic priority, extolling their strength in domestic propaganda campaigns. Li and Xiaoguo had already apologised for their performance. They described the particular joke as an "inappropriate metaphor". "After the performance that day, we immediately criticised House seriously, asked him to reflect on himself, and stopped all his subsequent acting work indefinitely," a Xiaoguo statement posted on Monday said. 'National feelings' hurt However, the bureau said that the joke had broken a regulation that says that such performances should not "hurt national feelings" or "damage national honour and interests". It said the show should have been stopped when the rule was breached, further compounding the punishment. "The People's Army is the strong guardian of national security and people's peace," the bureau said. "We will never allow any company or individual to wantonly denigrate the glorious image of the People's Army on the stage of the capital, (and) hurt the deep feelings of the people towards their army." AFP reported that a hashtag connected to the issue was the most searched on Weibo on Wednesday. There reportedly were more than 700 million hits. Also Read | Elon Musk choosing India over China? Big meet to decide Tesla's road to New Delhi Many of the comments supported the punishment, although Weibo is heavily censored and problematic content is usually removed quickly. "We could do without stand-up comedians and stars, but we could not do without the people's own army!" one comment said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China: Drama company cracks joke on PLA, gets fined millions of yuans

A day after China announced the completion of military drills, Taiwan’s defence ministry, on Tuesday (April 11) said it detected nine Chinese warships and 26 aircraft around the self-governing island. This also comes hours after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen criticised Beijing for its ‘irresponsible’ behaviour, in reference to the recent drills, dubbed as “Joint Sword”.&nbsp;

Chinese ships, aircraft remain around Taiwan after the drills

As of 11:00 am (local time), China “organised military aircraft this morning and crossed the median line from the north, the centre, and the south,” said Taiwan’s defence ministry. The nine Chinese ships and 26 aircraft, including J-16 and Su-30 fighters, were seen carrying out combat readiness patrols around the island, said the defence ministry, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ends-military-drills-around-taiwan-which-simulated-sealing-off-the-island-580988">China ends military drills around Taiwan which simulated 'sealing off' the island</a>

Taiwan’s defence ministry also said that their air force, navy and shore-based missile crews are closely monitoring the situation and responding. The wargames which were first announced, on Saturday, began hours after Tsai returned from her meeting in Los Angeles with the United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which China has since condemned.&nbsp;

China claims the democratically governed Taiwan as its territory and threatens to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-when-will-china-invade-taiwan-581148">Gravitas: When will China invade Taiwan?</a>

The United States and European Union, during the drills which were supposed to end on Monday, also asked Beijing to exercise “restraint”. Additionally, Taiwan’s government has repeatedly denounced the drills and reiterated that it will not escalate or provoke.

Taiwan’s Tsai slams China for ‘irresponsible’ behaviour over military drills

Tsai, late Monday took to Facebook and wrote that as the president “I represent my country to the world,” adding that her visits outside the island including stops in the US are not new and what Taiwan’s people expect. “However, China is using this to launch military exercises to cause instability in Taiwan and the region, which is not the responsible attitude of a regional power,” said Tsai. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-people-in-beijing-and-taipei-have-reacted-to-chinas-military-drills-580445">Explained | How people in Beijing and Taipei have reacted to China’s military drills&nbsp;</a>

She also went on to thank Taiwan’s military personnel for a “high degree of professionalism and sense of mission,” during China’s military drills. She added, “The protection of democratic Taiwan is the top priority. Although China's military exercises have come to an end, the national army and national security team will continue to hold their positions and defend the country.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A day after China announced the completion of military drills, Taiwan’s defence ministry, on Tuesday (April 11) said it detected nine Chinese warships and 26 aircraft around the self-governing island.

A day after China announced the completion of military drills, Taiwan’s defence ministry, on Tuesday (April 11) said it detected nine Chinese warships and 26 aircraft around the self-governing island. This also comes hours after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen criticised Beijing for its ‘irresponsible’ behaviour, in reference to the recent drills, dubbed as “Joint Sword”. Chinese ships, aircraft remain around Taiwan after the drills As of 11:00 am (local time), China “organised military aircraft this morning and crossed the median line from the north, the centre, and the south,” said Taiwan’s defence ministry. The nine Chinese ships and 26 aircraft, including J-16 and Su-30 fighters, were seen carrying out combat readiness patrols around the island, said the defence ministry, as per Reuters. ALSO READ | China ends military drills around Taiwan which simulated 'sealing off' the island Taiwan’s defence ministry also said that their air force, navy and shore-based missile crews are closely monitoring the situation and responding. The wargames which were first announced, on Saturday, began hours after Tsai returned from her meeting in Los Angeles with the United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which China has since condemned. China claims the democratically governed Taiwan as its territory and threatens to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: When will China invade Taiwan? The United States and European Union, during the drills which were supposed to end on Monday, also asked Beijing to exercise “restraint”. Additionally, Taiwan’s government has repeatedly denounced the drills and reiterated that it will not escalate or provoke. Taiwan’s Tsai slams China for ‘irresponsible’ behaviour over military drills Tsai, late Monday took to Facebook and wrote that as the president “I represent my country to the world,” adding that her visits outside the island including stops in the US are not new and what Taiwan’s people expect. “However, China is using this to launch military exercises to cause instability in Taiwan and the region, which is not the responsible attitude of a regional power,” said Tsai. ALSO READ | Explained | How people in Beijing and Taipei have reacted to China’s military drills She also went on to thank Taiwan’s military personnel for a “high degree of professionalism and sense of mission,” during China’s military drills. She added, “The protection of democratic Taiwan is the top priority. Although China's military exercises have come to an end, the national army and national security team will continue to hold their positions and defend the country.” (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan detects nine Chinese warships, 26 aircraft after Beijing announced end of military drills

The United States is exploring action against entities connected to the Chinese balloon operation. According to a Senior State Department official, Washington is confident that the manufacturer of the Chinese balloon that was shot down by the US military las weekend has a direct link with China's People Liberation Army (PLA).

Spy Balloon row: US says balloon maker had direct ties with PLA

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently held a rare video conversation with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops stationed on the Indian border near Eastern Ladakh and inspected their combat readiness.&nbsp;According to local state media, the event took place on January 18. The Chinese leader was at the PLA headquarters when he addressed the troops on the border defence situation in Khunjerab under the Xinjiang Military Command.

The Xinjiang military command troops are involved in managing border areas along Eastern Ladakh, which has seen tensions since April 2020 after the PLA carried out multiple transgressions.

In his address, Xi, who is also general secretary of the ruling Communist Party of China and the commander-in-chief of the PLA, spoke about how “in recent years, the area has been constantly changing” and how it had impacted the Chinese army, according to the video shown in the official media.

One of the soldiers replied that they were now carrying out “dynamic” and “24-hour” monitoring of the border. Xi then asked about their conditions and whether they were able to “receive fresh vegetables” in the inhospitable terrain.

According to the state media, Xi asked the border troops “about their border patrol and management work” and “hailed the soldiers as models of border defence and encouraged them to persist in their efforts and make new contributions.”

Eastern Ladakh has been one of the flashpoints of recent India-China tensions that erupted following the violent clash in the Pangong lake area.

So far, 17 rounds of high-level military talks have been held between the two countries and yet no significant breakthrough has been achieved in resolving the border issue.

India has repeatedly taken a tough stand, asserting that border instability and trade can’t go hand-in-hand, and has taken various measures to limit India’s reliability on Chinese goods.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping recently held a rare video conversation with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops stationed on the Indian border near Eastern Ladakh and inspected their combat readiness.

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently held a rare video conversation with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops stationed on the Indian border near Eastern Ladakh and inspected their combat readiness. According to local state media, the event took place on January 18. The Chinese leader was at the PLA headquarters when he addressed the troops on the border defence situation in Khunjerab under the Xinjiang Military Command. The Xinjiang military command troops are involved in managing border areas along Eastern Ladakh, which has seen tensions since April 2020 after the PLA carried out multiple transgressions. In his address, Xi, who is also general secretary of the ruling Communist Party of China and the commander-in-chief of the PLA, spoke about how “in recent years, the area has been constantly changing” and how it had impacted the Chinese army, according to the video shown in the official media. One of the soldiers replied that they were now carrying out “dynamic” and “24-hour” monitoring of the border. Xi then asked about their conditions and whether they were able to “receive fresh vegetables” in the inhospitable terrain. According to the state media, Xi asked the border troops “about their border patrol and management work” and “hailed the soldiers as models of border defence and encouraged them to persist in their efforts and make new contributions.” Eastern Ladakh has been one of the flashpoints of recent India-China tensions that erupted following the violent clash in the Pangong lake area. So far, 17 rounds of high-level military talks have been held between the two countries and yet no significant breakthrough has been achieved in resolving the border issue. India has repeatedly taken a tough stand, asserting that border instability and trade can’t go hand-in-hand, and has taken various measures to limit India’s reliability on Chinese goods. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Xi Jinping addresses PLA troops stationed along India-China border

The Chinese military blamed the Indian troops for 'illegally' crossing the Line of Actual Control and “obstructing" Chinese border patrol troops leading to the stand-off between the two armies on December 9. According to a statement by a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theatre Command spokesman, the Chinese troops “were obstructed by the Indian army who illegally crossed the Line (of Actual Control)". “Our response measures were professional, standard, and forceful, and stabilized the situation on the ground. At present, China and India have disengaged," he added according to AFP.

The clash between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control in northeastern India's Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang Sector on December 9 has evoked strong political reactions in India. Amid the opposition's demand for a 'stern' response to China, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in the parliament that while China unilaterally attempted to change the status quo along the LAC, the timely intervention by the Indian troops shunned away the Chinese PLA. Beijing said on Tuesday that the situation was stable along the unresolved border with India, adding the two sides "maintained unobstructed dialogue on the border issue through diplomatic and military channels."

Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force launched active combat patrols over Arunachal Pradesh after detecting "enhanced Chinese air activity", reports said. Fighter jets had to be scrambled "two-three times" in recent weeks to thwart China, they revealed.

The proceedings at the Indian parliament's lower house, Lok Sabha (House of the people) were adjourned till mid-day on Tuesday amid constant demand by opposition to respond to the gravity of the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Arunachal Pradesh.

Following the opposition's demands and adjournment notices to address the matter, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gave a statement in Lok Sabha on Tuesday.&nbsp;

India's timely intervention shunned away PLA: Defence Minister

Singh said that&nbsp;China attempted to "unilaterally change the status quo", against which Indian troops responded with a befitting reply. "No Indian soldier lost its life and timely intervention of Indian military commanders shunned away the PLA troops," Rajnath Singh said.&nbsp;

"Our troops bravely stopped PLA from encroaching upon our territory and forced them to go back to their post," he added.&nbsp;

"This matter has also been taken up with China through diplomatic channels. I want to assure the House that our forces are committed to guard our borders and ready to thwart any attempt that will be made to challenge it," Rajnath Singh added further.&nbsp;

Clashes broke out between both sides along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal's Yangste area of the Tawang sector on December 9. Soldiers from both sides sustained injuries as they exchanged barbs with each other.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-indian-soldiers-injured-in-clashes-with-chinese-army-in-arunchal-pradesh-report-542383">Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides</a>

The face-off reportedly led to minor injuries to a few personnel from both sides. At least Indian six soldiers were injured in the clash and were brought to Guwahati for treatment, as per reports by the news agency PTI.

The situation is 'stable': Chinese foreign ministry

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin did not comment on the reported&nbsp;clash from Tuesday. He told reporters "as far as we understand, the China-India border situation is stable overall," referring to the unresolved border between India and China, officially referred to as the Line of Actual Control due to its perilous nature.

"Both sides have throughout maintained unobstructed dialogue on the border issue through diplomatic and military channels, it is hoped that the Indian side will advance in the same direction as China," he added.

Beijing urged New Delhi to "earnestly implement the important consensus reached by both leaders, strictly abide by the spirit of the agreements and accords signed by both sides, together uphold the peace and tranquillity of the China-India border region."

Indian parliamentarians had moved adjournment notices in both houses of the parliament&nbsp;on Tuesday.&nbsp;While Manish Tewari gave&nbsp;a notice in the lower house, Lok Sabha;&nbsp;Congress leaders Randeep Surjewala and Syed Nasir Hussain gave similar adjournment notices in the upper house, Rajya Sabha.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge was quoted by PTI as saying: "Again our Indian Army soldiers have been provoked by the Chinese. Our jawans fought in a resolute manner and a few of them have been injured too."

The Congress party also slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged the government to convey intolerance to Chinese infiltration attempts in a 'stern tone'.

"There is news of a clash between the soldiers of India and China in Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh. The time has come for the government to leave its wavering attitude and explain to China in a stern tone that its act will not be tolerated," Congress's official Twitter handle INC India stated.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-clash-border-tensions-escalate-faceoff-leads-to-minor-injuries-to-a-few-personnel-542455">India-China Clash: LAC&nbsp;tensions escalate, faceoff leads to minor injuries to a few personnel</a>

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In another tweet, Congress hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his earlier comments related to the LAC standoff between India and China in Ladakh.&nbsp;

Referring to PM Modi's clarification pertaining to alleged Chinese intrusion, Congress said, "If this mistake had not been made. If China was not afraid of taking the name of China, today it would not have had the capacity to raise its eyes towards our country. Occupying our land, coming to our land and fighting with our soldiers is a distant thing. There's still time... don't be afraid!"

Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal said, "Our youth are the pride of the country. I salute his bravery and pray to God for his speedy recovery."

The said incident reportedly took place on December 9 in the Yangtse area in Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Around 200 Chinese soldiers tried to transgress the LAC, but the Indian troops contested the PLA attempts in a "firm and resolute manner", officers said.

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The Chinese military blamed the Indian troops for 'illegally' crossing the Line of Actual Control and “obstructing" Chinese border patrol troops leading to the stand-off between the two armies on December 9.

The Chinese military blamed the Indian troops for 'illegally' crossing the Line of Actual Control and “obstructing" Chinese border patrol troops leading to the stand-off between the two armies on December 9. According to a statement by a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theatre Command spokesman, the Chinese troops “were obstructed by the Indian army who illegally crossed the Line (of Actual Control)". “Our response measures were professional, standard, and forceful, and stabilized the situation on the ground. At present, China and India have disengaged," he added according to AFP. The clash between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control in northeastern India's Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang Sector on December 9 has evoked strong political reactions in India. Amid the opposition's demand for a 'stern' response to China, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in the parliament that while China unilaterally attempted to change the status quo along the LAC, the timely intervention by the Indian troops shunned away the Chinese PLA. Beijing said on Tuesday that the situation was stable along the unresolved border with India, adding the two sides "maintained unobstructed dialogue on the border issue through diplomatic and military channels." Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force launched active combat patrols over Arunachal Pradesh after detecting "enhanced Chinese air activity", reports said. Fighter jets had to be scrambled "two-three times" in recent weeks to thwart China, they revealed. The proceedings at the Indian parliament's lower house, Lok Sabha (House of the people) were adjourned till mid-day on Tuesday amid constant demand by opposition to respond to the gravity of the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Arunachal Pradesh. Following the opposition's demands and adjournment notices to address the matter, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gave a statement in Lok Sabha on Tuesday. India's timely intervention shunned away PLA: Defence Minister Singh said that China attempted to "unilaterally change the status quo", against which Indian troops responded with a befitting reply. "No Indian soldier lost its life and timely intervention of Indian military commanders shunned away the PLA troops," Rajnath Singh said. "Our troops bravely stopped PLA from encroaching upon our territory and forced them to go back to their post," he added. "This matter has also been taken up with China through diplomatic channels. I want to assure the House that our forces are committed to guard our borders and ready to thwart any attempt that will be made to challenge it," Rajnath Singh added further. Clashes broke out between both sides along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal's Yangste area of the Tawang sector on December 9. Soldiers from both sides sustained injuries as they exchanged barbs with each other. ALSO READ | Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides The face-off reportedly led to minor injuries to a few personnel from both sides. At least Indian six soldiers were injured in the clash and were brought to Guwahati for treatment, as per reports by the news agency PTI. The situation is 'stable': Chinese foreign ministry Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin did not comment on the reported clash from Tuesday. He told reporters "as far as we understand, the China-India border situation is stable overall," referring to the unresolved border between India and China, officially referred to as the Line of Actual Control due to its perilous nature. "Both sides have throughout maintained unobstructed dialogue on the border issue through diplomatic and military channels, it is hoped that the Indian side will advance in the same direction as China," he added. Beijing urged New Delhi to "earnestly implement the important consensus reached by both leaders, strictly abide by the spirit of the agreements and accords signed by both sides, together uphold the peace and tranquillity of the China-India border region." Indian parliamentarians had moved adjournment notices in both houses of the parliament on Tuesday. While Manish Tewari gave a notice in the lower house, Lok Sabha; Congress leaders Randeep Surjewala and Syed Nasir Hussain gave similar adjournment notices in the upper house, Rajya Sabha. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge was quoted by PTI as saying: "Again our Indian Army soldiers have been provoked by the Chinese. Our jawans fought in a resolute manner and a few of them have been injured too." The Congress party also slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged the government to convey intolerance to Chinese infiltration attempts in a 'stern tone'. "There is news of a clash between the soldiers of India and China in Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh. The time has come for the government to leave its wavering attitude and explain to China in a stern tone that its act will not be tolerated," Congress's official Twitter handle INC India stated. WATCH | India-China Clash: LAC tensions escalate, faceoff leads to minor injuries to a few personnel × In another tweet, Congress hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his earlier comments related to the LAC standoff between India and China in Ladakh. Referring to PM Modi's clarification pertaining to alleged Chinese intrusion, Congress said, "If this mistake had not been made. If China was not afraid of taking the name of China, today it would not have had the capacity to raise its eyes towards our country. Occupying our land, coming to our land and fighting with our soldiers is a distant thing. There's still time... don't be afraid!" Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal said, "Our youth are the pride of the country. I salute his bravery and pray to God for his speedy recovery." The said incident reportedly took place on December 9 in the Yangtse area in Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Around 200 Chinese soldiers tried to transgress the LAC, but the Indian troops contested the PLA attempts in a "firm and resolute manner", officers said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tawang skirmish: Chinese army alleges Indian troops 'illegally' crossed LAC

"On December 9, China's PLA troops encroached upon LAC in Yangtse, Tawang sector and attempted to change status quo. This was tackled by our troops in a determined manner. Our troops bravely stopped PLA from encroaching upon our territory and forced them to go back to their post," Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in Rajya Sabha.

'PLA troops tried to change status quo in Tawang', says Rajnath Singh

China’s People Liberation Army’s (PLA) Navy, on Sunday, took to their social media accounts and announced that two Type 075 amphibious assault ships have “graduated” from their training phase and are now combat-ready. Amid rising tension in the South China Sea, reports suggest that these ships will also play an important role in the country’s potential military campaign against Taiwan.&nbsp;

The first two ships of the class, named Hainan and Guangxi, have completed full-training courses, said the PLA Navy on their Weibo account. Notably, the two ships were made operational in less than a year, as Hainan and Guangxi were commissioned just last year in April and December, respectively.&nbsp;However, no details about the time or location of the exercise were given.&nbsp; 
 
The 40,000-tonne assault ships have reportedly received some massive upgrades compared to its predecessor, the 25,000-tonne Type 071 amphibious assault ships. A Type 075 ship has the ability to carry 30 &nbsp;helicopters while six of them take off at the same time. The Type 075 can also carry as many as 10 battle tanks, 20 Type 05 armoured infantry vehicles and 50 off-road trucks, said a report by South China Morning Post.&nbsp;

Additionally, with its seven levels of dock space, it can carry more than 30 amphibious vehicles or three air-cushioned landing craft along with nearly 1,000 marines including their equipment, the report added. &nbsp;

“Since the training programme started, the Guangxi has completed all the subjects of training and built up overall operational capability as an amphibious assault platform,” said Captain Xu Ce, according to media reports in Beijing.

The two ships are now among the PLA Navy’s fleet of 10 Type 071 ships out of which eight are currently operational while two are under construction. Reportedly, the PLA plans to build five more of this type of assault ship. Earlier this month, the Chinese Navy had also announced the induction of the Anhui, a third ship of the class.&nbsp;

The Type 075 will play a vital role, as many supposedly believe, in a potential military campaign against Taiwan, as the PLA Navy continues to expand its strong fleet which could carry its forces across the Taiwan Strait. Meanwhile, the Chinese state media, Global Times, said that the new Type 075 will play an instrumental role in the disputed South China Sea.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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China’s People Liberation Army’s (PLA) Navy, on Sunday, took to their social media accounts and announced that two Type 075 amphibious assault ships have “graduated” from their training phase and are now combat-ready.

China’s People Liberation Army’s (PLA) Navy, on Sunday, took to their social media accounts and announced that two Type 075 amphibious assault ships have “graduated” from their training phase and are now combat-ready. Amid rising tension in the South China Sea, reports suggest that these ships will also play an important role in the country’s potential military campaign against Taiwan. The first two ships of the class, named Hainan and Guangxi, have completed full-training courses, said the PLA Navy on their Weibo account. Notably, the two ships were made operational in less than a year, as Hainan and Guangxi were commissioned just last year in April and December, respectively. However, no details about the time or location of the exercise were given. The 40,000-tonne assault ships have reportedly received some massive upgrades compared to its predecessor, the 25,000-tonne Type 071 amphibious assault ships. A Type 075 ship has the ability to carry 30 helicopters while six of them take off at the same time. The Type 075 can also carry as many as 10 battle tanks, 20 Type 05 armoured infantry vehicles and 50 off-road trucks, said a report by South China Morning Post. Additionally, with its seven levels of dock space, it can carry more than 30 amphibious vehicles or three air-cushioned landing craft along with nearly 1,000 marines including their equipment, the report added. “Since the training programme started, the Guangxi has completed all the subjects of training and built up overall operational capability as an amphibious assault platform,” said Captain Xu Ce, according to media reports in Beijing. The two ships are now among the PLA Navy’s fleet of 10 Type 071 ships out of which eight are currently operational while two are under construction. Reportedly, the PLA plans to build five more of this type of assault ship. Earlier this month, the Chinese Navy had also announced the induction of the Anhui, a third ship of the class. The Type 075 will play a vital role, as many supposedly believe, in a potential military campaign against Taiwan, as the PLA Navy continues to expand its strong fleet which could carry its forces across the Taiwan Strait. Meanwhile, the Chinese state media, Global Times, said that the new Type 075 will play an instrumental role in the disputed South China Sea. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two Chinese Type 075 amphibious assault ships are combat ready, says PLA Navy

Two days after the UK defense Ministry raised an alarm sighting its military pilots were being recruited by China to train PLA soldiers, Taiwan has now clarified that its retired military pilots have not helped train PLA soldiers at all.

UK raises alarms on military pilots recruited by PLA

Taiwan has sought to allay concerns and stated that there are no known instances of former Taiwan Air Force pilots providing training to China's military.

Taiwan: No Taiwanese air force pilots trained PLA troops

Taiwan has confirmed that PLA drone flew over the Taiwan-controlled Kinmen islands, off the southeastern coast of mainland China.

Taiwan confirms PLA drone flew over Kinmen island on August 16

China claims Indian soldiers will take part in a joint military drill along with PLA troops in Russia. Will India send its soldiers amid heightened tensions with China? What could be the cost of pulling out? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Indian soldiers to hold drills with China?

After a U-turn from Sri Lanka, a Chinese ship was allowed to dock at the Hambantota port today. The ship is believed to be operated by the PLA. Can the vessel spy on Indian assets? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Chinese vessel in Hambantota reports to the PLA

A delegation of US lawmakers paid a visit to Taiwan. Beijing has responded with a dire threat. China's Defence Ministry has said that the PLA continues to "train and prepare for war". Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China threatens war after visit by US lawmakers

According to China's state-run Global Times, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has relaxed the age limit for postgraduate students to join the forces while emphasising on development of "intelligence, information and skills".&nbsp;

China conducted large-scale military exercises near Taiwan last week after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit and&nbsp;the country's defence forces fired missiles while Chinese warplanes flew a number of sorties&nbsp;into Taiwan's air defence zone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-rewriting-nuclear-deterrence-says-stratcom-chief-amid-china-russia-threat-506079">Also Read:&nbsp;US military ‘rewriting’ nuclear deterrence&nbsp;amid China, Russia threat</a>

Reports claimed Taiwan was also hit by a series of cyberattacks last week amid the military drills. Global Times in its report said the military's "recruitment for the second half of this year is progressing in full swing" while pointing at the "reckless visit" of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan.

Watch:&nbsp;China adopts hybrid warfare

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The state newspaper said Chinese netizens had vowed to contribute to the "national reunification". Last week, China released a "white paper" on Taiwan in which the Xi regime said it would "not renounce the use of force" against the island nation.

Global Times said there were "favourable conditions" for recruitment in the PLA as the age limit was relaxed from 24 to 26. The report said "priority" will be given to college students in science and technology schools. The report added that "skills necessary to fight a war" will be on top of PLA's agenda which includes internet, communication and engineering and&nbsp;"surveying and drone operation".

The report said the PLA's aim was now to "enhance soldiers' capacity in real combat" with hi-tech weapons to ensure "combat effectiveness". The report said, this year, there were more "highly educated applicants".

The report claimed there were 110,000 applicants with 50,000 college students and 27,000 college graduates.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

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According to China's state-run Global Times, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has relaxed the age limit for postgraduate students to join the forces while emphasising on development of "intelligence, information and skills".

According to China's state-run Global Times, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has relaxed the age limit for postgraduate students to join the forces while emphasising on development of "intelligence, information and skills". China conducted large-scale military exercises near Taiwan last week after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit and the country's defence forces fired missiles while Chinese warplanes flew a number of sorties into Taiwan's air defence zone. Also Read: US military ‘rewriting’ nuclear deterrence amid China, Russia threat Reports claimed Taiwan was also hit by a series of cyberattacks last week amid the military drills. Global Times in its report said the military's "recruitment for the second half of this year is progressing in full swing" while pointing at the "reckless visit" of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. Watch: China adopts hybrid warfare The state newspaper said Chinese netizens had vowed to contribute to the "national reunification". Last week, China released a "white paper" on Taiwan in which the Xi regime said it would "not renounce the use of force" against the island nation. Global Times said there were "favourable conditions" for recruitment in the PLA as the age limit was relaxed from 24 to 26. The report said "priority" will be given to college students in science and technology schools. The report added that "skills necessary to fight a war" will be on top of PLA's agenda which includes internet, communication and engineering and "surveying and drone operation". The report said the PLA's aim was now to "enhance soldiers' capacity in real combat" with hi-tech weapons to ensure "combat effectiveness". The report said, this year, there were more "highly educated applicants". The report claimed there were 110,000 applicants with 50,000 college students and 27,000 college graduates. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PLA's new agenda: Drone operation & tech skills; age limit relaxed for recruitment drive

Chinese aggression near Taiwan is being called the new normal. The PLA has extended its drills around the island. The Chinese military is said to have simulated an attack on Taiwan. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: China simulates an invasion of Taiwan

On day two of China's military drills, the PLA fired missiles over Taiwan with some projectiles landing in Japan's exclusive economic zone. How is Taiwan responding to these provocations? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: China fires missiles over Taiwan

The PLA conducted precision missile strikes in Taiwan Straits today. A top Chinese diplomat has said that Beijing will conduct a "re-education" of Taiwan after reunification. Palki Sharma tells you about China's plans for Taiwan.

Gravitas: PLA conducts precision missile strikes in Taiwan Straits

China is firing missiles towards Taiwan. It is conducting drills dangerously close to Taiwan. How is the world reacting? Russia is backing China, so is Pakistan. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: World reacts to Chinese military drills near Taiwan

In a major show of force, China held its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan on Thursday, a day after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island nation. Taiwan's defence ministry has confirmed that the Chinese military launched missiles from near Taiwan's Matsu islands as part of these exercises. It has also deployed fighter jets and warships.

Talking about the type of missiles that were fired, Taiwan said that a total of 11 Dongfeng ballistic missiles were launched into waters near Taiwan's northern, southern and eastern coasts "in several batches".&nbsp;The last time China shot missiles into waters&nbsp;surrounding Taiwan was in 1996.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-defence-ministry-says-27-chinese-warplanes-enter-air-defence-zone-503337">Taiwan's defence ministry says 27 Chinese warplanes enter air defence zone</a>

Taiwan has slammed the military exercises as "irrational actions that undermine regional peace".

Experts say that the exercises are aimed at testing a blockade of the island.

"The aim was to test the precision of the missiles and their ability to deny an enemy access to or control of an area," Eastern Theater Command spokesman Senior Colonel Shi Yi said in a statement.

China, apparently, plans to continue the military exercises till Sunday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-nancy-pelosi-in-taiwan-china-summons-us-ambassador-503061">As it happened: Plane carrying Nancy Pelosi departs Taiwan</a>

"In the face of this blatant provocation, we have to take legitimate and necessary countermeasures to safeguard the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a briefing.

The exercises are being carried out on some of the busiest&nbsp;shipping routes in the world and Taiwan's Maritime and Port Bureau has asked ships to avoid all areas where the drills are being carried out.

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In a major show of force, China held its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan on Thursday, a day after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island nation.

In a major show of force, China held its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan on Thursday, a day after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island nation. Taiwan's defence ministry has confirmed that the Chinese military launched missiles from near Taiwan's Matsu islands as part of these exercises. It has also deployed fighter jets and warships. Talking about the type of missiles that were fired, Taiwan said that a total of 11 Dongfeng ballistic missiles were launched into waters near Taiwan's northern, southern and eastern coasts "in several batches". The last time China shot missiles into waters surrounding Taiwan was in 1996. Also Read | Taiwan's defence ministry says 27 Chinese warplanes enter air defence zone Taiwan has slammed the military exercises as "irrational actions that undermine regional peace". Experts say that the exercises are aimed at testing a blockade of the island. "The aim was to test the precision of the missiles and their ability to deny an enemy access to or control of an area," Eastern Theater Command spokesman Senior Colonel Shi Yi said in a statement. China, apparently, plans to continue the military exercises till Sunday. Also Read | As it happened: Plane carrying Nancy Pelosi departs Taiwan "In the face of this blatant provocation, we have to take legitimate and necessary countermeasures to safeguard the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity," foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a briefing. The exercises are being carried out on some of the busiest shipping routes in the world and Taiwan's Maritime and Port Bureau has asked ships to avoid all areas where the drills are being carried out. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nancy Pelosi trip fallout: Taiwan says China launched 11 ballistic missiles near its waters

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