Five H-6 strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear bombs approached the island. They were accompanied by eight J-16 fighters and four J-11 fighters which are derivatives of the Russian Sukhoi Su-27.

The group also flies six J-10 fighter-bombers, a Y-20 refueling aircraft and three Y-9 and KJ-500 radio electronic warfare and aerial monitoring machines.

The bombers, six J-10s and two REB KJ-500s, approached Taiwan from the southeast as they flew over the Bashi Strait, which separates the island from the Philippines. These engines are accompanied by aircraft for aerial refueling.

The remaining fighters returned before they managed to defeat Bashi. But all engines took off into the ADIZ identification zone, where Taiwan needs the plane to identify itself. Chinese planes don’t do that.

China has not commented on the incidents, but has in the past called them flights to protect its sovereignty over Taiwan, which has never declared independence.

The incident came as Chinese President Xi Jinping’s three-day meeting with top Chinese commanders ended. According to the New China Agency, the president stressed the need to modernize the military in order to win the war.

“Great efforts should be made to strengthen the scientific and technological level and enhance current capabilities to win modern wars,” Xi said.

“It is necessary to strengthen practical experience and encourage and guide officers and soldiers to feel the wind and rain, see the world, strengthen their muscles and bones, and develop their talents in keen military exercises,” the Chinese president added.