Japan has reported that two Chinese aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, were conducting simultaneous operations in the Pacific for the first time, marking a significant expansion of China’s naval presence.
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The carriers were spotted beyond the First Island Chain, with the Liaoning operating east of the Second Island Chain, near Japan’s exclusive economic zone around Minamitorishima, approximately 750 miles south of Tokyo. The Shandong was observed south of Okinawa.
Both carriers were engaged in drills involving fighter jet and helicopter operations, accompanied by missile destroyers and other vessels.
This deployment signals China’s intent to project power further into the Pacific, challenging the U.S.-led maritime containment strategy, which uses island chains to restrict China’s naval reach.
Japan’s Defense Minister Gen Nakatani expressed concern over Beijing’s expanding military activities, noting the carriers’ operations as a move to enhance China’s distant sea and air capabilities.
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Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo described the deployment as a political message reflecting China’s “expansionist” aims.
China’s navy confirmed the operations as routine training to test far-seas capabilities, stating they complied with international law and were not targeted at any specific country.
The U.S. has responded by maintaining a strong naval presence, with the USS Nimitz operating in the South China Sea and the USS George Washington near Japan, underscoring ongoing tensions in the region.