US and Japanese navies closely monitor Liaoning carrier during the passage near the disputed islands in South China Sea.SHANGAI
Chinese aircraft carrier, Liaoning, successfully completed sea trials in the South China Sea and returned to port on Wednesday after a 37-day voyage.
According to Chinese news agency Xinhua, Liaoning docked at Qingdao military port after testing its combat system and fulfilling the set objectives.
Liaoning and its fleet were closely monitored by the United States (US) and Japanese navies during the passage in Taiwan Strait close to the disputed islands.
Japan and China have faced off over Japan's claim on the Diaoyu Islands in response to China's declaration of expanding its air-defense zone in late November. The Diaoyu Islands, Senkaku in Japanese, are within China's alleged airspace.
China's Defense Ministry stated that the carrier had not violated any country's borders as the operation complied with ordinary procedures.
China is the 10th state to have an aircraft carrier after the US, UK, Italy, Spain, Russia, India, Thailand, South Korea and Brazil.
Liaoning was reportedly accompanied by two air defense destroyers and two missile frigates during the trial of its power system, seagoing capability, integrated communication and meteorological support capabilities.
Liaoning was bought from Ukraine more than a decade ago and extensively refurbished by China Vessel Construction Industry before entering service last year.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
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