The People's Liberation Army has confirmed a drone flight near Pratas Island, claimed by Taiwan, as part of routine training. Analysts describe it as the latest 'salami-slicing' tactic in Beijing's approach to the island. One observer noted it also aims to test, wear down, and pressure Taiwan's military.
Pratas Island, known as Dongsha Island in Chinese, lies around 450km (280 miles) southwest of Kaohsiung in southern Taiwan and 260km from Shantou in Guangdong province on the mainland. The PLA Southern Theatre Command confirmed on Saturday that it had arranged the military drone to conduct routine training near Pratas Island, describing the operation as fully legitimate and lawful.
Analysts say this marks the PLA's first confirmed drone deployment in Taiwan-claimed airspace, representing the latest 'salami-slicing' tactic towards the island. One observer noted it was also meant to test, wear down and put pressure on Taiwan’s military.
The incident underscores ongoing tensions between Beijing and Taipei, with the drone flight highlighting Beijing's incremental pressure strategy in the region.
