Taiwan's defense ministry reported on 13th July that it was closely monitoring multiple missile tests occurring in China's northern region of Inner Mongolia. They noted that their air defense forces were on high alert in response to these activities. 

Taiwan, a democratic nation that China considers a part of its territory, maintains vigilant oversight over all Chinese military movements, particularly given Beijing's frequent operations near the island. Specific details about China's internal military activities are seldom disclosed by Taiwan. 

Taiwan's defense ministry reported detecting multiple rounds of test launches conducted by China's Rocket Force in Inner Mongolia starting from 4 AM local time (2000 GMT on Friday). Inner Mongolia is approximately 2,000 kilometers away from Taiwan. 

The ministry stated that Taiwan's forces are actively monitoring the situation, and their air defense units remain on high alert. However, they did not provide specific details regarding the nature of the missile tests or their implications. 

As of the time of the report, China's defense ministry had not responded to inquiries regarding the missile tests outside of regular office hours. The Rocket Force is responsible for managing China's array of conventional and nuclear missiles. 

In August 2022, China launched missiles into the waters surrounding Taiwan as part of military exercises, reportedly in response to then-Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taipei. 

Taiwan maintains advanced radar stations situated on peaks within its central mountain range. These radar installations are capable of extensive surveillance into Chinese territory, a capability sourced from security experts. 

China strongly opposes Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who assumed office in May, labeling him a "separatist." Since Lai's inauguration, China has escalated military activities, including conducting war games, as a form of increased pressure. 

President Lai has consistently expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with China, but these overtures have been consistently rejected. He rejects Beijing's assertion of sovereignty over Taiwan, asserting instead that the future of Taiwan should be determined solely by its people. 

Image source: The Japan Times