China has escalated risky military behaviour near Taiwan, with PLA fighter jets conducting unusually dangerous manoeuvres during December’s “Justice Mission” exercise, Financial Times reported.

Axar.az reports that incidents included a Chinese J-16 firing flares at Taiwanese F-16 jets at close range, flying directly behind Taiwanese aircraft in firing position, and using deceptive tactics to evade radar detection.

Western and regional defence officials say the actions fit a broader pattern of increasingly aggressive Chinese conduct toward neighbouring countries, including similar encounters with Japanese and Philippine aircraft. Experts warn that such behaviour raises the risk of miscalculation or accidental conflict, particularly as Beijing intensifies pressure on Taiwan.

Analysts also point to internal disruptions within China’s military command following President Xi Jinping’s purges, suggesting pilots may be ordered to take greater risks to demonstrate combat readiness. The Pentagon and US commanders increasingly view these exercises as rehearsals for a potential Taiwan contingency.