Warning that China may deploy aircraft carrier in Indian Ocean

Admiral John Aquilino, The US Pacific Fleet Commander said there has been no reduction in Beijing’s assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea, a vital trade route in the global supply chain, and it continues to bully other nations in the strategic region.

Admiral John Aquilino, who is in India, met Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh and other senior defence officials. He said he and Singh discussed ways to enhance cooperation and increase information-sharing and better integration between the two navies.

Replying to a question on the possibility of a Chinese aircraft carrier battle group operating in the Indian ocean, he said this also reflects Beijing’s intent that it wants to operate in a much broader area.

Aircraft carrier Liaoning arrives Hong Kong
The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning, berthed in Hong Kong, China. EPA/JEROME FAVRE

“I would expect to see continued deployments and I would expect to see a carrier deployment. None of that should surprise anyone,” he said.

On increasing footprints of the Chinese submarines in the Indian Ocean, he said this would only expand in coming years.

Via Hindustan Times/ Times of India/ The Economic Times

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