United States of America deploying two aircraft carriers to the South China Sea (LCS) to combat “evil influences” amid an increasing Chinese presence in the area.
The US Department of Defense stated that two aircraft carriers, the USS Carl Vinson and USS Abraham Lincoln, entered service in the South China Sea on Sunday (23/1).
The two ships were deployed for training which they claim complies with the law in international waters. However, they did not provide further details.
The commander of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier, JT Anderson, said the ship would be used for various exercises, including anti-submarine warfare operations, air warfare, and maritime operations to strengthen combat readiness.
“Operations like this make it possible to develop combat capabilities, reassure our allies and partners, and demonstrate our determination as a Navy to ensure regional stability and counter malicious influence,” Anderson was quoted as saying. Reuters.
Prior to this operation, the ships were reported to have held joint exercises with the Japanese Navy in Philippine waters. The exercise area covers waters east of Taiwan.
Previously, the United States also challenged China’s claims to the South China Sea by deploying the warship USS Benfold. China then deployed air and naval forces to repel the ship.
According to China, the USS Benfold entered illegally into the South China Sea which it claims is part of Beijing’s sovereign territory. However, the US insists that it conducts shipping operations in international waters.
China has repeatedly claimed the South China Sea which overlaps with the territorial claims of a number of other countries, such as the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan.
The matter was then referred to the Court of Arbitration in 2016. The court ruled China’s claim was invalid. However, Beijing is still adamant about it.
(isa/has)
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