SOUTH CHINA SEA - The U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) operates in international waters near the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (Navy) Jianghu V-class frigate Dongguan (560). Lassen is on routine patrol in the 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
There was no report of China being aggressive in the area while US forces are closing to them.
Reported last week, a Nimitz-class USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), United States Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft super carrier, entered the 7th Fleet area of operations, Sept. 17.
Rear Admiral. John Alexander, commander, Battle Force 7th Fleet said, “Ronald Reagan’s forward deployment to 7th Fleet demonstrates the U.S. commitment to the region and our allies.”
“It reiterates the importance of the U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force interoperability, and ensures we have the most capable platform forward when it matters, where it matters.” He added. Continue reading: Aircraft Carrier USS Ronald Reagan Enters 7th Fleet Area of Operations
Read also: A War between the United States and its Allies against China could possibly flare up at any time
It is clear that US forces are already inside the disputed area in the West Philippine Sea according to the news. But what’s next? Some people say US are just testing the waters and waiting China to finish the land reclamation before they act. But some people fear the worst and think that both this super power countries are on a joint venture exploration and militarizing the West Philippine Sea. What do you think?
Photo credit to U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Daniel Gay
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