Summary
China has deployed several groups of naval ships across the western Pacific Ocean, including areas like the Philippine Sea and South China Sea. This activity has caused concern among countries like the United States, Australia, and Japan. Officials from China have stated that their naval operations follow international law and urged others not to overreact.
Key Facts
- China has the largest navy in the world by number of ships, including over 370 vessels.
- A Newsweek map shows at least seven groups of Chinese naval ships in the western Pacific.
- China's CNS Liaoning, an aircraft carrier, was tracked by Japan near its main islands.
- The CNS Shandong, another Chinese aircraft carrier, left its base in the South China Sea and its whereabouts are currently unknown.
- The Chinese navy has also deployed amphibious warships for training in the South China Sea.
- Australia's Defense Minister confirmed Chinese ships' presence in the Philippine Sea and said they will monitor them.
- A Chinese naval task group visited Jakarta, Indonesia, after previous stops in Vietnam and Malaysia.
- China's government emphasizes that their navy follows a defensive policy, according to a spokesperson.
