Military & Geopolitical Strategy - China aims to become a global naval superpower [3] - China has two active aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, with a third, the Fujian, undergoing sea trials [1] - A fourth aircraft carrier is in development, potentially with nuclear propulsion [2] - The Shandong and Liaoning conducted exercises beyond the second island chain in the western Pacific [3] - These maneuvers signal a new phase of operational readiness for the Chinese navy [4] - Analysts suggest China could use this tactic to deter US forces in a potential military operation regarding Taiwan [4] Technological Advancement - China is evolving its aircraft carrier technology, progressing from retrofitted Soviet technology to domestically designed and enhanced vessels [2] - The Fujian showcases enhancements in design and capability [2]