Press release of the Ministry of National Defense

Time: January 6, 2024 at 09:40

In response to reports that airborne balloons by the CCP had flown over Taiwan, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) stated today (6^th) that based on recent drifting path information collected, these balloons had already posed a serious threat to the safety of many international flight paths. Aside from closely monitoring relevant developments, the Armed Forces notified civil aviation units with appropriate measures in real-time. The MND also expressed its condemnation for the CCP for its disregard of aviation safety as well as the safety of passengers on cross-Strait and international flights.

The MND pointed out that the purpose of these recently detected airborne balloons following analysis was mainly to harass the general public as the CCP attempted to make use of cognitive operations to affect the morale of our nationals. The Armed Forces have adopted the approach of "predicting the enemy from a wide perspective", and engaged in counter-reconnaissance measures early in the process. The MND calls on our nationals to understand cognitive combat measures by the CCP, and confront them with a rational and calm approach.

   MMD emphasized that international flight safety is a matter in concern for governments of all countries, who should work together to eliminate threats and ensure flight safety. However, as the CCP continues to oversee efforts made by all countries to promote flight safety, we therefore call for an immediate end to such practice to ensure regional flight safety.