China's military began three days of combat readiness patrol exercises on Friday, with drills aimed at "an all-round encirclement and deterrence posture" around Taiwan. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province of China, while Taiwan considers itself a sovereign state. On Taiwan's return from a trip to the US by President Tsai Ing-wen, 71 Chinese military planes and nine ships reportedly crossed the Taiwan Strait median line. Chinese state media noted the efficient deployment of the "long-range rocket artillery, naval destroyers, missile boats, air force fighters, bombers, jammers and refuellers". The move follows Tsai's meeting with the US House foreign affairs committee chairman, in which weapons to Taiwan were discussed. Although China often holds drills around Taiwan, the encirclement is being seen as further action taken in response. Despite this, residents of Taipei downplay such manoeuvres as part of daily life.