This April 9, 2023 photo shows a J-15 fighter ready to take off from aircraft carrier Shandong during the combat readiness patrol and military exercises around Taiwan Island carried out by the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

NANJING – The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Saturday launched joint air and sea patrols and military exercises of the navy and air force around the island of Taiwan.  

The patrols and exercises are meant to train the coordination of military vessels and airplanes and their ability to seize control of air and sea spaces, said Shi Yi, a spokesperson for the command, adding that the armed forces' ability to fight in real combat conditions will be tested.

READ MORE: China to 'take resolute measures to punish' Taiwan separatists

The patrols and exercises serve as a stern warning to the collusion of "Taiwan independence" separatists with foreign elements and their provocations, he added.

The Eastern Theater Command later released footage of the joint patrols and military exercises.

Seen from the footage, the Navy dispatched several destroyers, frigates and missile boats after receiving the commands. 

ALSO READ: PLA video shows encounters with US, Taiwan militaries

A fleet of Air Force fighter planes, early warning aircraft and jamming aircraft have also taken off while troops of the Rocket Force have been quickly mobilized.

In this April 9, 2023 photo, artillery weapons of the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) simulate the launch of precision strikes during the combat readiness patrol and military exercises around Taiwan Island. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

This photo taken on April 9, 2023 shows warplanes of the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army during the combat readiness patrol and military exercises around Taiwan Island. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

According to the command, the forces have arrived at designated air space and sea area around the island of Taiwan as planned and will approach targets from multiple angles for a long period of time to surround the island.