Is a major confrontation imminent? Japan simulates attacks on Liaoning aircraft carrier, prompting China's naval and air units to enter high alert!
According to a report from CCTV News on June 27, special commentators for CCTV revealed that Japan has recently conducted simulated attack operations against the Liaoning aircraft carrier group. Multiple media outlets have cited this news.
Japan has long been closely monitoring Chinese naval formations venturing into the Western Pacific. Tracking, surveillance, photography—these activities by Japan have never ceased. As soon as the Liaoning aircraft carrier group departs, Japanese ships and aircraft immediately follow. This is not an isolated incident but a long-standing practice.
This time, Japan’s actions have changed—approaching much closer than before. Not only did they get near, but they also carried out simulated attacks. According to Japan’s own reports, they conducted a series of targeted simulated attacks. Moving from mere tracking to simulated attacks marks a significant shift in nature.
The Liaoning aircraft carrier group did not remain idle. Carrier-based aircraft launched combat missions repeatedly. The formation continuously adjusted its tactical formations. Ships and aircraft entered a state of high alert, ready to respond swiftly at any moment. Throughout the entire process, China stood firm and made no concessions.
Experts analyze that such simulated attacks constitute dangerous provocation. Japan frequently conducts close-range reconnaissance and surveillance, sometimes even deliberately provoking. Some analyses suggest this is Japan’s deliberate attempt to amplify the so-called “threat” posed by the Liaoning aircraft carrier group. These simulated attacks are far from simple “photo-taking check-ins”—they carry clear intent and targeting.
China’s naval and air units entering high alert is itself a signal. China had previously responded by urging Japan to cease these dangerous actions. Japan’s conduct has escalated what was originally surveillance and monitoring into a more perilous situation. The closer the encounters at sea and the larger the maneuvers, the higher the risk of accidental conflict or escalation.
Whenever China’s aircraft carrier groups head out for long-range training in the Western Pacific, they almost invariably encounter Japanese ships and aircraft conducting close-range reconnaissance or provocation. This simulated attack sets a troubling precedent. It remains to be seen whether Japan will intensify its actions further in the future. Maintaining a high state of readiness and being prepared to respond promptly is inevitable for the Liaoning aircraft carrier group. Whether or not there will be an accidental clash or full-scale retaliation ultimately depends on Japan’s Self-Defense Forces’ choices.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1869197625225216/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.