China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has recently sent two aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and the Shandong, to the East China Sea for a series of exercises. This deployment marks the first time that China has deployed two aircraft carriers to the East China Sea simultaneously. It is also the first time that the Shandong, China’s second aircraft carrier, has conducted exercises in the East China Sea..
The exercises, which began on July 30, 2023, are aimed at improving the PLAN’s combat capabilities and enhancing its ability to operate in the East China Sea. The exercises will include a variety of scenarios, including anti-ship strikes, air defense drills, and joint operations with other naval units..
The deployment of two aircraft carriers to the East China Sea is a significant development that has raised concerns among China’s neighbors. The East China Sea is a strategic waterway that is home to several disputed islands, including the Senkaku Islands (known as the Diaoyu Islands in China). China’s increased naval presence in the East China Sea could lead to increased tensions with Japan and other countries in the region..
In addition to the exercises in the East China Sea, the PLAN has also been conducting exercises in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. These exercises are part of China’s broader strategy to expand its naval power and project its influence in the Asia-Pacific region..
China’s growing naval power has been a major concern for the United States, which has been working to strengthen its alliances in the Asia-Pacific region and increase its naval presence in the region. The United States has also been critical of China’s land reclamation and military buildup in the South China Sea..
The deployment of two aircraft carriers to the East China Sea is a clear indication of China’s growing naval power. It is also a reminder of the growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region and the challenges that China poses to the United States and its allies..
