China Conducts Dual Aircraft Carrier Training in Western Pacific

In early June 2025, the aircraft carriers Shandong and Liaoning launched carrier-based fighter aircraft in the Western Pacific. The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy announced that it had tasked both carriers to conduct training in the region.

Senior Captain Wang Xuemeng, a PLA Navy spokesperson, stated that the Liaoning and Shandong had been conducting training in the Western Pacific and other waters to test their capabilities in far seas defense and joint operations. He emphasized that these were routine training exercises, organized in accordance with the annual training plan, and aimed at enhancing the vessels' ability to fulfill their missions. Wang also noted that these activities were consistent with international laws and practices and were not targeted at any specific country or objective.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated that the naval vessels' activities were fully consistent with international law and practices. He stated that China's national defense policy is defensive in nature and expressed hope that Japan would view these activities objectively and rationally.

The Japanese Defense Ministry reported that the Shandong hosted aircraft takeoff and landing activities in waters north of Okinotorishima, while the Liaoning was operating southeast of Iwo Jima. This marked the first time that simultaneous activities of both carriers had been confirmed in the Pacific Ocean near Japan. The Liaoning was deployed on the east side of the second island chain, and the Shandong on the west side.

Chinese military affairs experts highlighted the significance of the dual-carrier voyage for China's defense. They noted that two aircraft carriers can form a more complete combat system than just one, providing significant defensive support in the Western Pacific. The ability to deploy two carriers simultaneously allows them to become familiar with the location and gain basic combat capabilities there.

Experts also pointed out that a dual-carrier group can carry out more diversified and complex tasks, requiring extensive training. The development of far seas naval capabilities, including aircraft carrier groups, will enhance the defense of national territorial security by extending the range of maritime defensive operations. It will also help safeguard China's overseas interests and the security of its sea lines of communication, while enabling China to take on greater international responsibilities.