China sends 29 warplanes into Taiwan's air defence zone

Taiwan said China sent twenty-nine warplanes into its air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in the third-largest incursion this year.

The island nation scrambled jets as Chinese bombers and fighter planes flew to the south of the island.

Also Read in Pics:Why Taiwan is booking airsoft guns

Add WION as a Preferred Source

Taiwan said the Chinese planes included seventeen fighters and six H-6 bombers including electronic warfare and anti-submarine planes.

The bombers, electronic warfare and an intelligence gathering aircraft flew over Bashi Channel and into the Pacific, Taiwan's defence ministry said.

Watch:With Taiwan on target, China launches warship

In January, China had sent 39 jets and last month 30 Chinese warplanes had entered Taiwan's air defence zone. In October last year, a record56 Chinese warplanes entered Taiwan's ADIZ.

China considers Taiwan as a breakaway province which it has threatened to unite by force if necessary. Last year Taiwan witnessed repeated Chinese incursions which the Tsai Ing-wen government claims is "grey zone" warfare designed to wear out Taiwan's forces.

China's latest move comes as it launched its third aircraft carrier the Fujian. China had earlier conducted a military drill around Taiwan amid continued tensions with Taipei.

(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.