This week saw significant naval activity in the Pacific Ocean with aircraft carriers from both the U.S. and China on the move. An American carrier departed from the West Coast to change its home port to Japan, joining U.S. forces in Northeast Asia.
On the other hand, a Chinese aircraft carrier completed its mission in the Philippine Sea and is now heading southwest toward the Philippines and the contentious South China Sea, where it vies for territorial claims against Manila.
Additionally, Italy’s aircraft carrier has made its way to India after conducting a joint exercise and visiting three countries in the South China Sea last month as part of its Indo-Pacific deployment.
U.S. Navy Highlights
USS Nimitz, USS Theodore Roosevelt, USS George Washington: Eastern Pacific
The Nimitz is currently active in the Eastern Pacific, partaking in an optimized fleet plan to further enhance its operational capabilities. It left San Diego on September 18.
The Theodore Roosevelt recently returned to the Eastern Pacific after a visit to Guam, having diverted from the Western Pacific due to commitments in the Middle East earlier this year.
The George Washington has officially completed its final departure from San Diego, heading for its new station in Yokosuka, Japan.
Other U.S. Carriers
USS Carl Vinson and USS Ronald Reagan: San Diego
The Carl Vinson remained docked at Naval Air Station North Island this week.
The Ronald Reagan recently returned to San Diego after departing from Washington state, where it underwent a change of command ceremony.
The Reagan will be undergoing maintenance until March 2025 at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
People’s Liberation Army Navy Updates
CNS Liaoning: Philippine Sea
The Liaoning, China’s first aircraft carrier, is active southeast of the Philippines and is reportedly sailing towards the South China Sea instead of returning north, sparking interest in its movements.
During its time in the Philippine Sea, it has conducted numerous flight operations, showcasing its capabilities.
CNS Shandong: Sanya, Hainan
The Shandong is docked at Sanya and has completed combat training exercises in the region.
CNS Fujian: Shanghai
China’s newest carrier, the Fujian, is still at Shanghai’s Jiangnan Shipyard after recent sea trials.
Italian Navy Activities
ITS Cavour: Goa, India
The Cavour has arrived on the coast of India following successful joint exercises and visits with U.S. and Australian forces in the region.