China Vows ‘Countermeasures’, ‘Deploys’ Drones, Jets Around Taiwan After US-Taipei $2bn Arms Deal

On October 27, China deployed 19 fighter jets and drones around Taiwan, coinciding with Beijing’s condemnation of recent US arms sales to the island. This deployment was part of a “joint combat readiness patrol,” marking the third such exercise reported by Taiwan this month. In response, Taiwan monitored the situation closely and deployed its own aircraft and naval vessels. The US had recently approved a $2 billion arms sale package to Taiwan, which includes advanced missile systems, further escalating regional tensions and prompting China to vow countermeasures.