'Suicidal': Can China take on US, Japan navies with Fujian?

NEW DELHI: The launch of China's newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has ignited discussions on the balance of naval power in Asia, with security analysts emphasizing the potential implications for regional dynamics, particularly affecting the Philippines. This development comes at a time of heightened military activities in the contentious South China Sea.

Rommel Banlaoi, director of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research, described the Fujian's deployment as a dual-edged sword. "The sailing of China’s third aircraft carrier signals to all parties in the South China Sea that Beijing is prepared for battle,” Banlaoi told the South China Morning Post, suggesting that while the carrier could pose a threat, it might also contribute to regional stability under certain conditions.

The Fujian, a Type 003 class vessel boasting 80,000 tonnes, marks a significant upgrade from China's other carriers, featuring electromagnetic catapults capable of launching more frequent sorties. This technological advancement comes as China aims to expand its blue-water navy to six aircraft carriers by 2035, positioning itself as a formidable naval power behind only the United States.

The regional tension is further complicated by recent aggressive maneuvers, including an incident where the Chinese coastguard used water cannons against Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal. This action underlines the ongoing disputes and the volatile situation in the area, the SCMP report said.

Despite this, Banlaoi emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions. "The situation in the waterways is becoming more worrisome now because all parties are increasing their military activities. And that is not good for regional peace and stability. What we need now is to de-escalate the current tensions in the South China Sea and conduct more diplomacy,” he said.

While the Philippines and its allies, notably the United States and Japan, strengthen their military cooperation through exercises and strategic bases, analysts remain cautious. Jose Antonio Custodio noted the overwhelming power of combined US and Japanese naval forces and dismissed the idea of a direct challenge by China as "suicidal." He metaphorically described the regional military alignment as “the Japanese anvil for an American hammer” aimed at containing Chinese maritime ambitions.

The strategic posturing in the South China Sea continues to draw international attention, with potential implications for regional security and the balance of power in Asia.