China has expanded its naval presence by conducting its first-ever dual aircraft carrier operation in the Pacific, signaling a significant escalation in its military reach.
Japan’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that two Chinese carriers — the Shandong and Liaoning — were deployed in the Pacific Ocean, conducting large-scale aviation drills. The Shandong, accompanied by four warships including a missile destroyer, was seen operating near Okinotori Atoll within Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), with jets and helicopters actively launching and landing.
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Simultaneously, the Liaoning operated near Miyako Island, southeast of Japan and close to Taiwan, before moving to other areas for additional exercises.
“This marks the first confirmed instance of two Chinese aircraft carriers conducting joint operations in the Pacific,” a Japanese defence official stated, emphasizing that the maneuvers appear aimed at strengthening China’s long-range maritime power.
China’s expanding naval activity is viewed as part of its broader goal to extend influence beyond the ‘first island chain’ — stretching from Japan to the Philippines.
Japan has repeatedly voiced concern over China’s growing military presence in the region, including lodging diplomatic protests in the past.
With regional tensions escalating, this development is expected to intensify strategic discussions between Japan and the US regarding countermeasures to China’s increasing maritime assertiveness.
