China’s newest Type 054B frigate sailed alongside the Liaoning aircraft carrier in a carrier strike group drill near Okinotorishima, Japan’s southernmost island, on May 25, 2026 [1, 2]. The group was spotted about 880 kilometers southwest of Okinotorishima, marking the frigate’s debut in this formation [1, 2].
On May 26, carrier-based fighter jets and helicopters aboard the Liaoning carried out takeoff and landing exercises as part of the ongoing drills [1, 2]. At least four escort ships accompanied the Liaoning during the exercises, demonstrating a coordinated maritime operation [1, 2].
Earlier, the Liaoning entered the South China Sea on April 20 to monitor the US-Philippines Balikatan joint military exercises, which lasted until May 8 [1]. The Chinese naval presence extended from observing that exercise to conducting its own operations farther northeast in the western Pacific.
Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi noted that the Liaoning’s activity marked "the first time this year that the Chinese military has confirmed and announced that one of its aircraft carriers is operating in the Pacific." He added Japan would maintain vigilant surveillance of maritime and airspace areas surrounding Japan to stay prepared for any developments [2].
The drills near Okinotorishima highlight China’s expanding naval reach in the Pacific as the Type 054B frigate operates alongside a key carrier asset. The carrier group’s movements will likely remain under close watch by regional observers in the coming months.
