Chinese aircraft carrier's maneuvers in the waters near Taiwan: show of force or routine operation?

The presence of a Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning together with a strike group in the southern waters of Taiwan, it is worrying in the region. Although the situation attracts the attention of world media, analysts emphasise that such developments are in line with Beijing's long-term strategy. The open armed conflict between China and the US, despite tensions, remains unlikely.

In recent days, a Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning, escorted by destroyers and other support units, was spotted near the strategic Bashi Canal. This is a place of great military importance that connects the South China Sea with the Pacific and separates Taiwan from the Philippines. Taiwan Ministry of Defence confirmedThat Chinese Jordanists are most likely heading towards the Western Pacific. These actions aim not only to demonstrate China's military presence in the region but also to try to exert political pressure on Taiwan and its allies, including the United States.

Additionally, Taiwan's Ministry of Defence reported, Chinese media published a propaganda film in which Chinese troops declare full readiness for a "battery", which is part of Beijing's wider narrative. Tensions between Taiwan and China are fueled by regular maneuvers and violations of Taiwan's Air Defense Identification Zone. Nevertheless, experts believe that the likelihood of a full-scale conflict explosion remains low. Both sides, both China and the US, have too much to lose in the case of escalation, especially in the economic context.

Additionally, the Taiwanese Ministry of Defence recently reported the detection of 27 Chinese aircraft and 14 submarines near the island. This is another example of the increased activity of the People's Liberation Army around Taiwan. Recently published satellite photos revealed that two Chinese aircraft carriers, Liaoning and Shandong, they moored together at one wharf at the base on Hainan Island. This event aroused the interest of analysts, as previously both ships were not seen simultaneously in this location. This observation suggests that both aircraft carriers may be prepared for the same operation in the Western Pacific region, which could significantly increase the operational capabilities of the Chinese Navy around Taiwan.

China also has a third aircraft carrier, Fujianwho is currently undergoing naval trials and has not yet been formally entered into service. This aircraft carrier is the largest and most technologically advanced aircraft carrier in the Chinese fleet, equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, which significantly increases its combat capabilities compared to previous units. Once the unit is fully operational, Beijing will be able to have three air carriers in service, which will significantly strengthen its ability to project force in the Western Pacific region. This in turn will allow China to conduct maritime operations more effectively, as well as increasing military pressure on Taiwan and its allies such as the United States and Japan.

The observed activity confirms that China is gradually increasing its ability to project naval forces, which is of great importance for the balance of forces in the Western Pacific region. Having three operational carriers not only strengthens China's military presence, but also allows Beijing to carry out more complex naval operations, including potential blockades around Taiwan.

Choć obecne manewry chińskiej marynarki mogą budzić niepokój, należy je postrzegać przede wszystkim jako element szerszej gry polityczno-militarnej, a nie bezpośredniego zagrożenia. Chiny konsekwentnie realizują swoją strategię zwiększania wpływów w regionie, jednak ani Pekin, ani Waszyngton nie wydają się gotowe do wejścia na drogę otwartego konfliktu, który przyniósłby poważne konsekwencje globalne.

Podsumowując, chińska projekcja siły na wodach w pobliżu Tajwanu, choć niepokojąca, wpisuje się w szerszą grę o wpływy w regionie.

Written by MD