China has expanded its naval capabilities by carrying out its first known dual aircraft carrier operation in the Pacific Ocean, signaling a significant step in its efforts to extend military influence beyond its coastal region.
Japan’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that two Chinese aircraft carriers had entered the Pacific, a move considered a substantial escalation in Beijing’s maritime activity. The Shandong carrier, accompanied by four other vessels—including a missile destroyer—was seen performing aviation exercises near Okinotori atoll, an area within Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). During the drills, helicopters and fighter jets were observed taking off and landing on the Shandong.
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Simultaneously, the Liaoning—China’s first aircraft carrier—was also detected operating with its own fleet inside Japan’s EEZ, southeast of Miyako Island near Taiwan. After completing maneuvers in the area, the Liaoning moved on to conduct separate naval exercises.
According to a spokesperson from Japan’s defence ministry, this marks the first instance of two Chinese aircraft carriers conducting operations together in the Pacific. The spokesperson added that the drills likely aim to enhance China’s ability to carry out long-range naval missions.
Analysts suggest the maneuvers are part of China’s broader agenda to assert military dominance beyond the so-called “first island chain,” which stretches from southern Japan to the Philippines.
Japan has repeatedly voiced concerns over China’s increasing naval presence in nearby waters. Last year, the Japanese government condemned the Liaoning’s passage through its contiguous zone, labeling it “unacceptable” and filing a diplomatic protest with Beijing.
As regional tensions mount, these recent developments are expected to spur increased cooperation and strategic dialogue between Japan and the United States to counter China’s expanding naval ambitions.
