On Thursday morning, the Chinese fighter jets made eight attempts to enter Taiwanese airspace. Taiwan's air force had to broadcast a warning signal nine times commanding the jets to leave.
Taiwan's military needs to be prepared if China actually attacks. The defense ministry's budget for missiles is NT$240 billion, over US$8.6 billion. Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng says he understands the threat of an air attack, and plans to move more money to the missile budget if necessary.
Taiwan has also developed HF-2Es, a type of cruise missile system that hasn't been seen in action yet. They have a range of over 1,000 kilometers, and are suspected to be designed specifically for an attack against China.
Former air force commander Chang Ting-ting says the speed and range of these supersonic missiles boost Taiwan's defense capability against a foreign threat.
Chang also says the accuracy of these long-range missiles is excellent, usually striking within 15 meters of the target. Chang says the extensive budget will cover further research to improve and strengthen Taiwan's defensive abilities.