Taiwan Reports Repeated Chinese Military Incursions in May 2026

The Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan reported a series of Chinese military incursions around the island's territorial waters between May 7 and May 13, 2026. The activity peaked on May 7 with 22 aircraft sorties and a similar number of vessels, 18 of which crossed the median line into the Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).

Military pressure continued through the following weekend. On May 8, the ministry detected 12 sorties and six naval vessels, with 10 aircraft crossing the median line. By May 9, eight aircraft and six vessels were reported, all of which entered the central, southwestern, and eastern ADIZ. On May 10, activity included 12 aircraft sorties and five naval vessels, with nine aircraft crossing the median line into the northern and southwestern ADIZ.

Incursions tapered off over the following days. On May 11, seven aircraft and five vessels were detected, while May 12 saw nine sorties and seven naval vessels. By May 13, the ministry reported only two sorties and seven naval vessels, with one aircraft entering the southwestern ADIZ. Throughout this period, the Republic of China Armed Forces monitored the situation and responded to the maneuvers, which occur amid Beijing's claims of sovereignty over the island.