Taiwan deployed forces Wednesday in response to China’s “live-fire” drills near the island, condemning them as a threat to regional security.

China sent 32 aircraft and warships for joint drills, designating a live-fire zone 40 nautical miles off Taiwan’s southern coast without prior warning.

Taiwan’s defense ministry criticized the move as a violation of international norms and vowed to strengthen its defenses, CBS News has reported.

The drills follow growing Chinese military activity in the region and heightened concerns over Taiwan’s communication security after recent incidents involving Chinese vessels damaging undersea cables.

Written by B.C. Begley