China holds first live fire drills with aircraft carrier warships
You're referring to the recent military exercise conducted by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy!
Yes, on January 15, 2023, China's PLA Navy conducted its first live-fire drills with aircraft carrier warships, marking a significant milestone in the country's naval capabilities. The exercise took place in the South China Sea, a strategically important region with significant economic and military implications.
The drills involved China's sole operational aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, as well as several other warships, including destroyers, frigates, and submarines. The exercise aimed to test the PLA Navy's ability to conduct complex naval operations, including anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare.
The live-fire drills involved the firing of various types of missiles, including anti-ship missiles, surface-to-air missiles, and anti-submarine missiles. The exercise also included the deployment of fighter jets, including the Shenyang J-15, China's indigenous carrier-based fighter jet.
The drills were seen as a demonstration of China's growing military capabilities and its increasing presence in the Asia-Pacific region. The exercise was also seen as a response to the growing military presence of other countries, including the United States, in the region.
It's worth noting that China has been rapidly expanding its military capabilities in recent years, including the development of its aircraft carrier fleet. The country has also been investing heavily in its naval infrastructure, including the construction of new ports and bases.
The exercise has sparked concerns among regional countries, including Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, which have expressed concerns about China's military expansion and its potential impact on regional stability.
What are your thoughts on this development? Do you think China's military expansion is a cause for concern, or is it a natural part of the country's growth and development?