China’s Navy Conducts First Dual Aircraft Carrier Exercises in South China Sea
In a major development, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy of China has conducted dual aircraft carrier formation exercises for the first time in the South China Sea. This marks a significant step in China’s efforts to boost its naval capabilities amid ongoing territorial disputes in the region.
Details of the Exercise
The exercises involved China’s two active aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and the Shandong, operating together in a coordinated formation. According to the PLA Navy’s official Weibo account, the training extended into the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and returned to the South China Sea, showcasing the extensive operational range of the navy’s carrier strike groups.
Purpose and Significance
The dual carrier exercises aim to enhance the combat capability of the aircraft carrier formation system. Conducting such exercises requires a high degree of operational flexibility, which is crucial for demonstrating the PLA Navy’s ability to deploy and sustain significant air and sea power. These exercises not only improve combat readiness but also act as a deterrent to potential adversaries in the region.
Future Prospects
While the Liaoning and Shandong are fully operational, China’s third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, was unveiled in June 2022 and is currently undergoing sea trials. The expansion of China’s carrier fleet underscores the nation’s growing naval power and its aspirations to assert greater influence over disputed waters in the South China Sea.
Doubts Revealed
People’s Liberation Army Navy -: The People’s Liberation Army Navy is the naval branch of China’s military forces. It is responsible for protecting China’s maritime interests and conducting naval operations.
Dual Aircraft Carrier Exercises -: Dual Aircraft Carrier Exercises involve two large ships called aircraft carriers working together in military training. These exercises help improve the navy’s ability to operate and fight with multiple carriers at the same time.
Liaoning and Shandong -: Liaoning and Shandong are the names of two aircraft carriers in China’s navy. They are like floating airports that can launch and land fighter jets at sea.
South China Sea -: The South China Sea is a large body of water near China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. It is important for trade and has many islands that different countries claim as their own.
Yellow Sea and East China Sea -: The Yellow Sea and East China Sea are two other seas near China. They are important for fishing, trade, and military activities.
Fujian -: Fujian is the name of China’s third aircraft carrier, which is still being tested. It shows China’s efforts to build a stronger navy.
Naval Capabilities -: Naval capabilities refer to the strength and abilities of a country’s navy. This includes the number of ships, technology, and skills to protect and defend the country’s interests at sea.
Territorial Disputes -: Territorial disputes are disagreements between countries over who owns certain areas of land or sea. In the South China Sea, several countries argue over who controls different islands and waters.
