Washington also scrambled its US Navy Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group to the South China Sea, albeit for routine operations.
While in the South China Sea, the strike group will conduct maritime security operations, which include flight operations with fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, maritime strike exercises, and coordinated tactical training between surface and air units.
Rear Admiral Doug Verissimo, commander of the strike group, said in a statement: “After sailing through these waters throughout my 30-year career, it’s great to be in the South China Sea again, conducting routine operations, promoting freedom of the seas, and reassuring allies and partners.
“With two-thirds of the world’s trade travelling through this very important region, it is vital that we maintain our presence and continue to promote the rules-based order which has allowed us all to prosper.”