China's Liaoning Carrier Group Trains in Western Pacific; Japan Monitors Aircraft Operations

China's aircraft carrier Liaoning, accompanied by its escort fleet, has been conducting training exercises in the Western Pacific. Japan's Self-Defense Forces closely monitored the Chinese naval activity, specifically noting the carrier-based aircraft operations. According to information released by Japan's Ministry of Defense on May 26, the Liaoning was observed conducting flight operations, including takeoffs and landings, approximately 880 kilometers southwest of Okinotori Island. The Japanese defense ministry provided details on the composition of the Chinese fleet, which included the aircraft carrier Liaoning, the Type 055 destroyer Wuxi (hull number 104), the Type 052D destroyer Kaifeng, the Type 054B frigate Luohe (hull number 545), and the Type 901 comprehensive supply ship Hulun Lake (hull number 901). The fleet was initially sighted sailing in the waters southwest of Okinotori Island on May 25. By May 26, the Liaoning and some escorts had moved further southwest, with flight operations continuing. The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force's escort ship Asahi is reportedly continuing to gather intelligence on the Chinese fleet's movements.