China is likely to launch military drills in the coming days near Taiwan, using President Lai Ching-te's upcoming trip to the Pacific and scheduled U.S. transit as a pretext, according to assessments by Taiwan and regional security officials.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported increased Chinese military presence. Seventeen aircraft and seven vessels were detected near Taiwan. Ten aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan monitored and responded to the activity.

A P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft flew through the strait's international space "in accordance with international law," the Navy said.