What Beijing’s drone flight over Pratas Island means for its Taiwan strategy

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Amber WangJanuary 23, 2026 at 05:00 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

A Chinese PLA surveillance drone entered Taiwan's self-defined airspace above Pratas Island on Saturday, marking the first confirmed PLA drone deployment within Taiwan's claimed airspace. Pratas Island, located in the South China Sea, is strategically important due to its position west of the Bashi Channel. Taiwan's defense ministry confirmed the incursion, while the PLA Southern Theatre Command stated the drone was conducting routine training near the island. Analysts suggest this action is part of Beijing's "salami-slicing" strategy to pressure Taiwan's military and test its defenses. The PLA considers the operation legitimate and lawful.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Shantou 30% Philippines 40% Guangdong province 40% Kaohsiung 50% PLA Southern Theatre Command 60% South China Sea ×270% Beijing ×280% People's Liberation Army ×290% Pratas Island (Dongsha Island) ×595% Taiwan ×6100%

Keywords

taiwan 100% pratas island 90% drone flight 90% salami-slicing strategy 80% pla 80% military strategy 70% airspace 70% south china sea 60% routine training 50% maritime choke point 50%