China deploys drone fighters near Taiwan Strait, Reuters reports

According to a report by Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, satellite images of these airfields show rows of short aircraft with swept wings that match the shape of J-6 fighters, which first flew in the Chinese Air Force in the 1960s.

Senior fellow at Mitchell Institute J. Michael Dahm said Chinese armed forces have deployed about 200 or more outdated fighters converted into drones at airfields near the Taiwan Strait.

These fighter drones are capable of carrying a combat payload or being used as decoys to overload Taiwan's radars and air defense systems.

Drones have been spotted at bases in Fujian and Guangdong provinces. Their proximity to the median line of the Strait allows China to conduct mass launches within minutes.

Experts note that in case of conflict, China could use these low-cost drones as a first wave of attack to force Taiwan to spend expensive air defense missiles on outdated equipment, opening the way for modern J-20 fighters.

Taiwan's Ministry of Defense said it is closely monitoring the situation and is already implementing electronic warfare measures and smart interception systems to distinguish real threats from target drones.

Conflict between China and Taiwan

China considers Taiwan its separatist province that sooner or later should return under the control of Beijing. Taiwan considers itself an independent state with its own constitution and democratically elected leaders.

In recent years, tensions have increased due to intensified Chinese military exercises near the island, a rise in cyberattacks, and attempts to limit international support for Taipei.

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said he is ready to defend sovereignty and strengthen defense capabilities in response to growing aggression from China.

At the same time, China's foreign minister announced plans for "reunification" with Taiwan and warned the United States of possible consequences in case of military support for Taipei. Beijing promised a strong response to countries supplying weapons to Taiwan.

Recently, China resumed active military flights near Taiwan after a short pause linked to preparations for a meeting between the leaders of the United States and China.

According to Western intelligence, China's invasion of Taiwan may be possible as early as November 2026.