China-US-France-Japan Naval Forces Confrontation in the Philippine Sea

In recent days, the Chinese Type 075 amphibious assault ship fleet passed through the first island chain of Japan and entered the Philippine Sea. Waiting for the Type 075 amphibious assault ship was a joint fleet of US, Japan, and France, including their aircraft carriers—USS Carl Vinson, JS Kaga, and FS Charles de Gaulle. These naval powers converged in the Taiwan Strait, creating a bustling scene. The Japanese Joint Staff announced that Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces detected two batches of Chinese Navy fleets entering the Taiwan surrounding waters, including the Type 075 amphibious assault ship "Anhui," missile destroyer "Xuzhou," missile frigate "Shaoxing," and another fleet comprising destroyer "Nanjing," frigate "Huanggang," and comprehensive supply ship "Qiandaohu."

The US, French, and Japanese naval vessels, including the mentioned aircraft carriers, engaged in military exercises in the Philippine Sea. Notably, the French carrier strike group, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier FS Charles de Gaulle, participated, while Japan dispatched the helicopter carrier JS Kaga and destroyer JS Akizuki. The scene was captured in a stunning image issued by the US military, showcasing the three aircraft carriers sailing side by side in the ocean, escorted by accompanying aircraft. The impressive lineup included the USS Carl Vinson, JS Kaga, and FS Charles de Gaulle, each with its respective escort vessels.

As the US frequently deploys its aircraft carriers such as the USS Carl Vinson to the Asia-Pacific region, this joint exercise named Pacific Steel 2025 gathered a substantial and diversified lineup. The USS Carl Vinson was accompanied by CVW-2 air wing, consisting of various squadrons equipped with advanced aircraft like F/A-18F Super Hornets, F-35C fighters, and EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft. The FS Charles de Gaulle, France's only serving aircraft carrier, with a turbulent construction history, boasts formidable armaments, including 32 vertical launch units for anti-air missiles and radar systems with a detection range of 250 kilometers.

The inclusion of the JS Kaga, originally a helicopter carrier recently transformed into a light aircraft carrier, marked Japan's evolving naval capabilities. This transformation, aiming to increase operational flexibility, aligns with Japan's strategic focus on maritime security amidst regional tensions. With the JS Kaga undergoing testing of F-35B fighters and participation in the joint exercise following its return from the US, Japan displays its commitment to naval modernization and regional engagement.

In contrast, the Type 075 amphibious assault ship Anhui's transgression of the first island chain into the eastern waters near Taiwan symbolized China's military maneuvers amidst the presence of the formidable US, Japanese, and French naval forces. Despite China's growing naval strength, as depicted by the three active Type 075 amphibious assault ships' passage through the first island chain, a significant power disparity remains evident when confronting the established naval might of the US, Japan, and France. The 075 series, with limited weaponry but designed for amphibious operations, faces challenges when engaging with the technologically advanced and experienced naval forces of the US, Japan, and France in the Pacific region.

While the US frequently engages in military exercises in the Taiwan Strait with allies, future scenarios anticipate increased multinational cooperation. The ongoing joint maneuvers involving significant naval forces from the US, Japan, and France underscore the complex dynamics and strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region. As geopolitical tensions persist, the evolving naval capabilities and strategic posturing of major maritime powers continue to shape regional security dynamics.

Subsequent episodes will further delve into the evolving naval dynamics and strategic interactions shaping the Indo-Pacific maritime domain. Stay tuned for more insights on the latest developments and implications for regional security. - Ziding