Press release of the Ministry of National Defense

Time: January 10, 2024 at 11:50

With respect to reports of the "release of early warnings from the satellite of the Ministry of National Defense involving election intervention" and others, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) stated today (10^th) that as the Joint Air-force Operations Command (JAOC) considered the trajectories of flight paths of the satellite launched by the CCP on the 9^th to be abnormal and may pass over the island, based on enemy threats, it dealt with the situation to protect the safety of our nationals based on the Regulations on the Handling of Contingent Situations by the Armed Forces during Regular Combat Readiness - Neighboring countries launching rockets or missiles through our surrounding sea-waters and airspace. As viewed, the operation was entirely a matter of national defense and security, not anything to do with political obstruction let alone "election intervention."

The MND explained that the English warning message has already been placed under review and revision by relevant units. As for satellite operations launching by mainland China, appropriate early warnings and response measures will be provided according to the handling regulations and depending on the impact and extent of the threat to us.

The MND emphasized that the Armed Forces will strictly adhere to administrative neutrality, implement administration in accordance with the law, and realize the nationalization of military force. The MND will not alter its position, and shall continue strive to prepare for war readiness to ensure homeland security.