PLA Conducts Joint Combat-Readiness Patrols as Taiwan Approves $24B Defense Package
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) organized naval and air forces to conduct joint combat-readiness patrols around Taiwan on May 10, 2026, with main combat vessels entering waters southwest of Penghu. The Chinese Defense Ministry described the operations as 'justified and reasonable' to counter 'Taiwan independence' forces. Simultaneously, Taiwan's Legislature approved $24 billion for emergency arms procurement to deter potential blockades following the precedent set by current disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.