China has significantly increased its expenses in military exercises are alarmed by Taiwan. The Taiwanese armed forces judge that the Chinese spent $ 21 billion (18 billion euros) on exercises around their island, claimed by Beijing. It is 40% more than in 2023 Reuters reports.
The news agency could not verify this evaluation independently, but specifies that it is based on the accounting of Chinese air and naval missions and an estimate of the associated costs, particularly in fuel.
Possible use of force
Last year, in the region 12,000 flights of J-10 J-10 hunters, H-6 bombers and drones in the region were observed. The Chinese Navy also hired resources for almost 2 million hours.
China claims sovereignty in Taiwan, where Kuomintang supporters took refuge after their defeat against the Chinese Communist Party in 1949. Beijing did not exclude the use of force to take control of this island, populated by 23.5 million inhabitants, led by a democratic government.
Beijing has increased the pressure in recent months when the strength of US support has been questioned since the return of Donald Trump.
American military officers have already indicated that they expected Taiwan control for the end of the decade. In March, the Taiwanian authorities indicated to fear an attack in 2027, for the centenary of the Foundation of the Popular Chinese Liberation Army.
Therefore, Taiwan plans to increase his defense budget in almost a quarter next year, exceeding 3% of the gross domestic product (GDP), to strengthen their abilities against China and Respond to the calls of the United States To strengthen his army.
Source: BFM TV
