China’s Navy Conducts First Dual Aircraft Carrier Operations in South China Sea

China’s Navy recently conducted its first dual aircraft carrier operation in the highly contested South China Sea, sparking regional attention as tensions rise over disputed waters.

This major exercise included the aircraft carriers Liaoning and Shandong, plus 11 additional ships and a fleet of fighter jets, demonstrating China’s growing maritime capabilities.

While Liaoning and Shandong were at the forefront, China's third carrier, the Fujian, is currently undergoing sea trials. Once operational, it will further strengthen China’s naval power.

The carriers moved strategically across key seas — from the Yellow Sea to the East China Sea, and finally to the South China Sea — before returning home, marking an unprecedented display of mobility.

This exercise also confirmed the combat readiness of China’s advanced J-15B fighter jets and J-15D electronic warfare jets, showcasing the rapid development of China’s carrier-based air capabilities.

With 12 J-15 fighter jets in formation, this operation displayed China’s “blue-water” capability — the ability to sustain long deployments far from home, crucial for power projection.

While the Liaoning and Shandong use ski jumps for takeoffs, the Fujian will be the first Chinese carrier with catapults, promising to expand launch capabilities for heavier, more advanced aircraft.

China plans to introduce even more advanced carriers in the future, some powered by nuclear propulsion — a significant leap from its current fleet’s technology.