Reports from defense analysts or official statements from foreign governments

China's PLA Navy Conducts First Dual-Carrier Drills in South China Sea with Liaoning, Shandong, and J-35 Stealth Fighters

Oct 31, 2024, 08:04 AM

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy of China has conducted its first dual-carrier formation drills in the South China Sea, utilizing its aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong. This significant exercise aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the carriers, as reported by Xinhua. The drills are seen as a strategic move to bolster China's naval presence in the region, particularly as the J-35 stealth fighters are expected to be deployed on these carriers, improving their air superiority and fleet air defense capabilities. The exercise is viewed as a crucial step in asserting China's maritime interests, especially concerning foreign naval forces near Taiwan.