China has simultaneously deployed two aircraft carriers to the Western Pacific, a first for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). The deployments were confirmed by the PLAN on Tuesday, with both carriers conducting training exercises in the area.
The two carriers, CNS Shandong and Liaoning, are being tested in distant seas and airspace as part of their operational capabilities. The move comes as China seeks to improve its military presence in the region.
Japan’s Defense Minister Gen Nakatani said Japan communicated with China via diplomatic channels to ensure Japan’s security and prevent any threats. He stated that Japan will continue to make information from surveillance activities public, demonstrating the country’s ability to deter unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or other actions.
The Japanese government has also announced plans to increase its air defense posture in response to China’s military build-up. The US Navy’s aircraft carrier USS George Washington departed Yokosuka on Tuesday for carrier air wing qualifications, as reported by the Iwakuni City Council.
China’s twin deployments mark a significant development in the region’s security dynamics. The PLAN has confirmed that both carriers are conducting routine training exercises in accordance with international laws and practices, aiming to enhance its capabilities in far seas protection and joint operations.
Source: https://news.usni.org/2025/06/10/china-deploys-2-aircraft-carriers-to-western-pacific-for-the-first-time-uss-george-washington-leaves-japan-for-carrier-qualification