China’s new aircraft carrier sails through Taiwan Strait amid tensions
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China confirmed that its newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, sailed through the Taiwan Strait for trials in the South China Sea, highlighting Beijing’s expanding naval capabilities, drawing responses from Taiwan and Japan.
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An undated photo of China's third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, preparing to set out for maiden sea trials from Shanghai Jiangnan Shipyard in eastern China's Shanghai (AP)
Beijing announced on Friday that its third and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, sailed through the Taiwan Strait as part of ongoing scientific research trials and training missions in the South China Sea.
The move reflects China’s ongoing investment in modernizing its armed forces, a process that has raised concerns among regional governments despite Beijing’s repeated claims that its objectives remain peaceful.
Currently, China has two operational carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, while the Fujian is still undergoing sea trials.
The Chinese navy stated that cross-regional testing is “a normal part of the aircraft carrier’s construction process” and “not directed at any specific target,” according to navy spokesperson Leng Guowei.
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Chinese navy expands regional presence
Analysts, however, say the Fujian’s passage through the sensitive waterway signals Beijing’s ambitions.
“It’s to flex China’s newfound military strength and send a veritable signal to potential adversaries,” said Collin Koh, a senior fellow at Singapore’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence confirmed that it had tracked the situation through “joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance means” and responded accordingly.
Japan’s Defence Ministry reported that three Chinese naval vessels, including the Fujian, were detected southwest of the disputed Diaoyu Islands on Thursday. It was the first time Tokyo officially confirmed the Fujian’s presence in nearby waters.
Japanese authorities have repeatedly warned that China’s growing military activities could “seriously impact” national security, pointing to a record 355 Chinese vessel transits near the islands last year. Though it is noteworthy that the US has been militarizing regions around China over the past years, including Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory.
On Friday, Beijing also announced that a Chinese coastguard fleet had conducted a patrol within the territorial waters of the Diaoyu Islands.
Read more: China accuses Philippines of 'playing with fire' on Taiwan
What comes next for the Fujian?
According to Chinese military commentator Song Zhongping, the South China Sea offers more complex conditions for sea trials compared to other waters, making the Fujian’s testing process particularly demanding.
Once the trials and adaptive training are complete, the Fujian is expected to be commissioned into active service, strengthening the Chinese navy and further advancing Beijing’s goal of becoming a maritime power.
