China's Aircraft Carriers Extend Reach into Pacific

China recently conducted exercises involving two aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and the Shandong, in seas near Japan. These drills, which included frequent fighter jet and helicopter operations, marked the first time two Chinese carriers sailed together beyond the 'first island chain' and toward Guam, a significant U.S. military hub. This move signals China's increasing naval reach and capability to project power in the western Pacific, potentially increasing risks for U.S. forces operating in the region. Japan has expressed "serious concerns" about these activities, which are seen as a demonstration of China's intent to assert dominance and influence its neighbors aligned with the U.S.