China’s largest and most advanced aircraft carrier ever has sailed through the South China Sea in a major show of force.
The Fujian, which is yet to formally enter service, sailed through the Taiwan Strait into the South China Sea, both of which are highly sensitive waterways.
The Chinese navy claimed on Friday that the journey had been conducted in order to carry out “scientific research and training missions”.
It added: “This cross-regional trial and training exercise for the Fujian is a routine arrangement in the carrier’s construction process and is not directed at any specific target.”
Although the Fujian is yet to formally enter service, it started sea trials last year
|
GETTY
The Fujian, chillingly named after the province of China which looks out towards Taiwan, was first unveiled in 2022, making it China’s third aircraft carrier, and started sea trials last year.
Despite the Chinese reassurances, other nations have paid close attention to the aircraft carrier’s journey.
Japan’s Defence Ministry said on Thursday evening that the Fujian had entered the East China Sea, and was sailing southwest towards Taiwan.
It also confirmed the ship was accompanied by two Chinese missile destroyers.
LATEST NEWS FROM CHINA:
PICTURED: The Fujian aircraft carrier first being unveiled in 2022
|
GETTY
Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said it was monitoring the situation with joint intelligence surveillance and had taken appropriate measures.
US Marines and Japanese counterparts are currently undertaking a fortnight of exercises on the nearby island of Okinawa.
The drills, which include the Typhon missile system and other advanced anti-ship weapons, are set to continue until September 25.
A senior security official from Taiwan said the Fujian was likely headed to the South China Sea in order to prepare for its commissioning ceremony.
PICTURED: The Chinese navy at the country’s recent military parade
|
GETTY
In recent years, China has increased its military presence around Taiwan, whose government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty.
China considers the Taiwan Strait to be its territorial waters, whereas Taiwan, the US and many of its allies say it is an international waterway.
The South China Sea has also been a subject of heavy contention – as China claims most of it.
But many of China’s neighbours, including the Philippines and Vietnam, contest these claims.
