Open-source satellite imagery has unveiled significant movements from the Chinese military, particularly surrounding their naval capabilities and operations within the contested waters of the South China Sea. This was highlighted by the recent sighting of the CNS Shandong, one of China’s three aircraft carriers, leading a naval formation approximately 316 miles southeast of Sanya, located on Hainan Island, the warship's home port.
The Shandong has been quite active, having departed on its current mission at the end of October, marking it as part of China's inaugural dual aircraft carrier operation alongside another carrier, the CNS Liaoning, along with eleven other warships. On November 4, the Shandong made its way through waters situated to the north of the Philippines and south of Taiwan, underscoring China’s continued naval assertiveness.
The strategic significance of this region is not lost on military analysts. The Philippines, being part of the first island chain with Taiwan and Japan, plays a pivotal role in the U.S. military's defense strategy aimed at curtailing Chinese military expansion. This approach suggests leveraging allied territories to keep the growing Chinese military influence at bay.
According to reports from Newsweek's weekly update tracking deployments of aircraft carriers across the Indo-Pacific, two additional Chinese carriers, the Liaoning and the newly commissioned 80,000-ton CNS Fujian, remained at their respective docks during this period. Meanwhile, at least three other warships were reported to be providing escort to the Shandong, signaling the increased naval operations of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN).
The timing of the Shandong’s operations also coincides with mounting tensions between China and the Philippines. Recently, Beijing released baselines claiming they hold jurisdiction over waters surrounding features disputed with the Philippines, particularly concerning certain reefs. This has prompted the Philippine government, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to take action by signing laws reinforcing their territorial and maritime rights.
China’s assertiveness is evident, with its government lodging protests following these legislative developments from the Philippines. The Philippines continues to maintain their rights within their exclusive economic zone, which is integral for their economic stability and resource management.
Further complicate the military dynamics is the technological advancement of the Chinese navy. Reports suggest China is progressing on the development of its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, having already produced prototypes for large surface warships. While all current operational carriers are conventionally powered, this shift toward nuclear capabilities could significantly alter the balance of naval power within the region.
Modifications and enhancements to existing military capabilities have become commonplace within the PLAN. Recently, China released images of their latest trimaran stealth drone. Presented at the Zhuhai Airshow, the JARI-USV-A drone showcases sophisticated technological features, including vertical launch systems, maritime navigation radar antennas, and capabilities for semi-autonomous operations. These advancements are expected to bolster the Chinese naval presence, particularly around the artificial islands they’ve established throughout the South China Sea.
The espionage capabilities of these new aerial vehicles are believed to extend to countering both submarine and surface threats, accompanying reconnaissance operations. Interestingly, the interest level surrounding naval drones extends beyond China, as similar systems are being trialed by the U.S. Navy, albeit with slower progress.
This broad backdrop of technological developments and military maneuvers builds on the existing narrative of heightened competition and tension within the South China Sea, where multiple nations vie for control and influence over this strategically important maritime zone.
