Tracking data of the sorties shows a change in the makeup of the PLA air force missions. While surveillance aircraft were the most frequently sent, the balance has now tipped to see fighter jets dominate. The use of bombers, capable of carrying nuclear weapons, has also increased. Speculation is growing China will try to mount an invasion. Estimates range from within a few years to decades.
On Wednesday, Taiwan’s defence minister claimed China was capable now, but by 2025 would much more easily be able to launch a “full-scale invasion”.
