A powerful Chinese naval flotilla has entered the Philippine Sea, alarming security officials in the region and raising fears about Beijing’s growing military presence in the region. It is not clear where the flotilla is heading, although some say it is sailing toward Australia.
Analysts say the latest movement shows how fast China is expanding its reach and how serious the contest for power in the Indo-Pacific and surrounding areas has become.
Satellite Images Reveal Large Chinese Formation East of the Philippines
Satellite images from Starboard Maritime Intelligence confirmed a major Chinese naval group was about 260 nautical miles east of the Philippines as of December 2.
The formation includes an amphibious assault ship that can carry around 30 helicopters and about 1,000 marines, along with a destroyer, a frigate, and a supply ship.
Security experts say this type of force is built for long-range missions. It is the kind of naval group
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