China appears to be testing the waters around Taiwan in an effort to quell its independence.  

The superpower has been holding military exercises off the coast of the self-governing island.  

Taiwan says it's detected 34 naval vessels and 125 aircraft in formation around it.  

Otago University International Relations expert Robert Patman told Ryan Bridge China ideally wants Taiwan to fall into its lap without the use of force.  

He says it's an attempt at political intimidation having these drills involving war ships and fighter jets, but Taiwan's condemned the drills and is holding its positions. 

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