China Releases Video of Encounter With US Aircraft Carrier Fighter Jet

Newsweek reporter Ryan Chan, who has more than ten years of experience covering China and global current events, is now based in Hong Kong. He specializes in security and defense matters in the Western Pacific. Chan can be contacted at r.chan@newsweek.com.

Recently, Chinese state media released footage showing a potential encounter between Chinese and American carrier-based fighter jets in undisclosed waters. The U.S. Pacific Fleet declined to comment on specific operations but mentioned routine operations near foreign aircraft and ships in the Indo-Pacific region.

The U.S. military frequently operates in the western Pacific, including the East and South China Seas, where Chinese intercepts have occurred. American aircraft carriers deploy fighter jets to intercept foreign aircraft approaching the ships, maintaining a naval presence.

A recent China Central Television documentary showcased the country’s aircraft carriers, revealing a close encounter between a Chinese J-15 fighter jet and a suspected U.S. Navy F/A-18 fighter jet. The purpose of the encounter remains unclear, with a Chinese military observer suggesting it was part of a training exercise.

The Philippine Sea, a significant operating area for U.S. aircraft carriers, was mentioned in a Pentagon report on China’s military power. The sea lies within the U.S. containment strategy to limit China’s military access to the Pacific Ocean.

Both the U.S. Navy and Chinese military are expected to have further encounters while operating in the western Pacific.