Chinese Carriers in Pacific: First Sighting
- Japan's Ministry of Defense reported that two Chinese aircraft carriers were observed operating in the Pacific Ocean simultaneously, marking a first.
- This announcement followed reports that the Liaoning,China's older aircraft carrier,had entered waters near Minamitorishima,a remote Japanese island.
- Hayashi previously noted that China's increasing maritime activity appears aimed at strengthening its ability to conduct missions far from its shores.
Two Chinese aircraft carriers, the Shandong and Liaoning, have been spotted operating together in the Pacific for the first time, prompting Japan to voice concerns. This marks a meaningful escalation in China’s naval presence, with the Shandong, accompanied by four other ships, entering Japan’s exclusive economic zone and conducting drills. Japan’s Ministry of Defense confirmed the unprecedented joint operation, signaling heightened tensions as the Chinese Navy asserts its capabilities. Japan has responded with increased surveillance and a message to China regarding these maritime maneuvers.The incident underscores China’s ambition to project power far from its shores and its commitment to defending its maneuvers under international law, according to a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman. For comprehensive coverage of these developments, visit News Directory 3. Discover what’s next for Japan and China’s naval relations.
Chinese Aircraft Carriers Conduct Drills in Pacific; Japan Responds
Updated June 10, 2025
Japan’s Ministry of Defense reported that two Chinese aircraft carriers were observed operating in the Pacific Ocean simultaneously, marking a first. The ministry stated Tuesday that China’s Shandong, accompanied by four other vessels, entered Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on Monday. The aircraft carrier Shandong conducted fighter jet and helicopter drills north of Okinotori atoll.
This announcement followed reports that the Liaoning,China’s older aircraft carrier,had entered waters near Minamitorishima,a remote Japanese island. Yoshimasa Hayashi, Japan’s chief cabinet secretary, stated that Japan would increase its surveillance and had communicated an “appropriate message” to China regarding these activities.
Hayashi previously noted that China’s increasing maritime activity appears aimed at strengthening its ability to conduct missions far from its shores. Lin Jian, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, defended the movements of the aircraft carriers, asserting they are “fully consistent with international law and international practices.”
Lin added, “Our national defence policy is defensive in nature. We hope Japan will view those activities objectively and rationally,” during a news conference on Monday. the incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding China’s growing naval presence and its implications for regional security, notably concerning freedom of navigation and resource exploration in the Pacific.
What’s next
Japan is expected to continue monitoring Chinese naval activity closely and to coordinate with allies to ensure regional stability. Further diplomatic exchanges between tokyo and Beijing are anticipated to address concerns over maritime activities and maintain open dialog channels.