PLA sends record 56 warplanes over median line of Taiwan Strait in a day. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) sent 56 warplanes across the median line of the Taiwan Strait, setting a new record. This occurred as a PLA aircraft carrier strike group conducted drills near Taiwan. The increased military activity coincides with the US-led Rim of the Pacific naval exercise. Taiwan's defense ministry reported 66 PLA aircraft and drones in its air defense identification zone within 24 hours. China claims these operations practice joint assault tactics and signal determination for reunification with Taiwan.