China Deploys Nuclear Bombers South China Sea as US Warns Taiwan Island Seizure

US intelligence reports indicate that China may initiate limited military operations targeting Taiwan’s smaller outlying islands, such as Kinmen and Matsu, as a strategic step short of a full-scale invasion. Satellite images reveal China has deployed advanced H-6 nuclear-capable bombers and other military aircraft to Woody Island in the disputed Paracel Islands, signaling increased military assertiveness in the South China Sea. The US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) warns that China might employ diplomatic, economic, and military pressure, including potential seizure of outlying islands, to coerce Taiwan and test US resolve. These islands are strategically important given their proximity to the Chinese mainland and their role as forward positions for Taiwan’s defense, although they have been partially demilitarized over recent decades. The DIA’s Worldwide Threat Assessment emphasizes that while a full invasion of Taiwan is not expected imminently, China’s coercive tactics will likely escalate, aiming to weaken Taiwan’s control over its frontier territories and discourage steps toward independence. Analysts view these actions as part of Beijing’s broader long-term strategy to assert control over Taiwan and challenge US influence in the region.