China's Dual Aircraft Carrier Expansion Marks Strategic Shift
For the first time, China's Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers have simultaneously operated in the Western Pacific, marking a strategic escalation. These maneuvers aim to project military power and pressure regional security dynamics, drawing concern from nations including Japan, the U.S., and Taiwan.
- Country:
- Taiwan
In a historic military maneuver, China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) has, for the first time, deployed its Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers simultaneously to operate in the Western Pacific. The vessels crossed the second island chain in what experts are calling a significant strategic escalation.
According to reports from the Taipei Times, Taiwan's National Security officials have indicated that this dual-carrier operation is part of China's broader strategy to control key sea lanes, project its military power, and coerce regional actors to reevaluate their security connections with democratic allies. The movements of the carriers have garnered intense scrutiny from the United States, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
Japan's Ministry of Defense confirmed sightings of the Liaoning near Minamitori Island on June 7, and the Shandong's intrusion into Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone on June 9 has heightened tensions. The exercises underscore China's objective to extend its influence into the third island chain, expanding beyond traditional coastal defense roles.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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