Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has ordered intensified intelligence and surveillance efforts as China deploys two aircraft carriers simultaneously in the Pacific, prompting regional alarm.

Taiwan Ramps Up Monitoring of Chinese Naval Movements

On Thursday, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te instructed defense and security units to increase vigilance and intelligence operations amid expanding Chinese military maneuvers. This follows reports that China’s Shandong and Liaoning aircraft carriers were operating simultaneously across the first and second island chains—an unprecedented development closely tracked by Taiwan and Japan.

"The actions of the two aircraft carrier groups in the relevant waters... have posed considerable risks for the Indo-Pacific region," Lai stated, highlighting international concern over Beijing's assertiveness.

Rising Regional Anxiety as China Expands Reach

While global focus shifts to the Middle East amid the Israel-Iran conflict, Lai emphasized that China’s military pressure “has not slowed,” especially in the Indo-Pacific. "It is worth paying special attention... that China's military pressure in the entire region of the first and second island chains has not slowed due to the situation in the Middle East," he said following a high-level defense briefing.

The first island chain encompasses Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines, while the second includes areas like Guam, projecting China's power further into the Pacific.

Beijing Downplays as “Routine Training”

China’s Ministry of Defense has yet to respond to requests for comment, but the Chinese navy previously labeled the dual-carrier movements as "routine training" not aimed at any specific country. China currently operates two aircraft carriers and is testing a third.

Despite China’s assurances, Taiwan has vowed to continue close cooperation with regional allies and partners. President Lai stressed the importance of remaining prepared for “emergencies” and deepening coordination with “friends” to deter further destabilization.

Broader Implications and Strategic Warnings

President Lai also linked China’s assertiveness to wider global instability, citing “a chain of global security challenges” triggered by conflicts in the Middle East. Analysts interpret the dual-carrier deployment as a signal of China’s ambition to operate farther from its coasts and test regional resolve.

The move underscores Taiwan’s precarious position amid expanding Chinese military influence and global geopolitical uncertainty.