For the first time, Japan has detected two Chinese aircraft carriers operating simultaneously in the Pacific Ocean, signaling an expansion of Beijing’s maritime presence in contested regional waters.

Liaoning and Shandong in Separate Pacific Zones

Japan’s Defense Ministry reported that the Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers were spotted on Saturday conducting operations in distinct areas of the Pacific, both in proximity to remote southern Japanese islands. Notably, the Liaoning had previously sailed within Japan's exclusive economic zone near Minamitorishima, east of Iwo Jima.

Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya confirmed diplomatic communication with Beijing through China’s embassy in Tokyo and stated that Japan would “take appropriate steps” if necessary, although he stopped short of formally condemning the action.

Strategic Significance

The presence of both Chinese carriers—Liaoning, a refurbished Soviet-era vessel, and Shandong, China’s first domestically built carrier—underscores the country’s growing confidence in sustaining blue-water naval operations far from its shores.

This development follows the recent operation of the Liaoning east of the second island chain, a move already regarded as a bold demonstration of Beijing's long-range maritime ambition. The simultaneous deployment of two carriers significantly elevates regional security concerns.