China kept up daily military pressure around Taiwan, with Taipei tracking 21 aircraft and vessels in a 24-hour window — routine by now, but a steady negative for regional stability.

• Nine Chinese aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering airspace to Taiwan's north, center, southwest and east.
• Six navy ships and six government vessels operated in the surrounding waters at the same time.
• Taiwan's military responded with its own aircraft, ships and land-based missile systems on watch.
• Fighter jets and helicopters were both involved, with helicopter activity logged off Taiwan's east coast.

Outlook: These near-daily incursions show no sign of easing, keeping the Strait a standing flashpoint.