Chinese media reported that this was the first time the Shandong ship moved in the Western Pacific region in a “systematic and large-scale” formation, and participated in many patrols and exercises around the island of Taiwan. Loan.

The Shandong, China’s first domestically-developed and domestically built aircraft carrier, sailed through the Ba Si Strait southeast of Taiwan on April 5. Japan’s Defense Ministry said the Chinese aircraft carrier strike group began exercises in the Philippine Sea two days later.

The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese army held a live-fire drill on April 8-11, with the participation of the Shandong aircraft carrier formation.

CCTV said the Shandong aircraft carrier cooperated with missile, air force and army units during the exercise. The aircraft carrier also practiced searching and countering submarines, coordinating fire and controlling airspace.

The image released by the Chinese military shows the J-15 fighter jet practicing taking off and landing on the Shandong aircraft carrier, while the escort squad has at least 5 guided missile destroyers and supply ships. logistics.

In addition to the Taiwan Self-Defense Force, the Japanese Ministry of Defense also sent fighter jets to monitor the activities of the Chinese aircraft carrier. Japan reported that Chinese naval fighters and helicopters performed about 620 takeoffs and landings on the Shandong aircraft carrier during the period April 7-25.

“The group of ships faced complex operating conditions, with many foreign warships and military aircraft rotating in rotation. The carrier formation continuously reacted proactively and handled prudently, improving capabilities. field operations,” CCTV described.