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What is China’s aircraft carrier Liaoning testing – and why does it matter?

China’s first aircraft carrier tried new tactics in its latest drill – including working with land-based tanker aircraft and coordinating with an amphibious assault ship…

By Samantha Johnson / June 23, 2026

China’s first aircraft carrier tried new tactics in its latest drill – including working with land-based tanker aircraft and coordinating with an amphibious assault ship – amid a push to strengthen military combat capability.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier strike group returned to its home port in Qingdao on Monday after completing more than 40 days of far-sea combat training, according to state broadcaster CCTV.
During the extended deployment, the Liaoning conducted combat exercises at multiple locations in the South China Sea and western Pacific Ocean.

CCTV released videos of the exercises on Monday and said the Liaoning had demonstrated that its combat capability had reached a new level.

The footage showed that the Type 075 amphibious assault ship Anhui, with hull number 33, had also taken part in the Liaoning’s exercises in a rare appearance.
It also showed a number of Z-20 helicopters taking off from the vessel. Type 075 amphibious assault ships had previously seldom operated alongside aircraft carriers.

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