Press release of the Ministry of National Defense
Time: October 14, 2024 at 11:10

    The Ministry of National Defense (MND) stated today (14th) that in response to the PLA announcement of military exercises in the Eastern Theater of Command, it was monitoring developments and maritime trends of the Liaoning vessel fleet on the 13th. Koo Li-hsiung, the Minister of National Defense, led Admiral Mei, the Chief of General Staff, and other key personnel to preside over this morning's control meeting of the Emergency Operation Center. Minister Koo requested all officers and soldiers to be more vigilant as they strengthen monitoring, and coordinate closely with the coast patrol and other authorities, adhering to the principle of leniency when anticipating enemy situations. Service personnel should also respond in a manner that does not escalate conflict to safeguard our security and national defense.

    The MND explained that the irrational and provocative military exercises by the PLA does not only endanger security across the Taiwan Strait, but also weakens any developments to cross-strait relations. Such drills seriously undermine security in the wider Indo-Pacific region, and threaten rules-based international order. As such, the MND has issued an order to all units of the three armed forces to review the military strength in managing such situations based on the Regulations for Handling Emergencies During Regular Combat Readiness by Armed Forces. The MND also uses intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems to closely monitor PLA rocket forces and other developments, while each of the outlying island defense zones remain on high alert. Mission aircraft and warships will respond to enemy situations according to the engagement rules issued by the MND.

    As pointed out by the MND, the PLA has been consistent in its use of warfare measures as it adopts cognitive deterrence and social differentiation in line with its military operations. Based on the premise of ensuring operational safety, the MND will appropriately announce maritime and air updates, and explain the response measures of the Armed Forces. The MND also calls on the media and the general public to stay alert to false information released by the enemy as the military and civilians must work hand in hand to safeguard our security and national defense.