China’s newest aircraft carrier may only be able to conduct air operations at about 60% the rate of a 50-year-old US Navy carrier, two former US carrier officers say, a substantial combat limitation for a vessel meant to revolutionize Beijing’s fleet.

The global network of P-8 maritime patrol aircraft contributes to maritime domain awareness, the U.S. Navy said.

When China showcased its newest aircraft carrier in the South China Sea, an unexpected U.S. submarine appearance sent a powerful message. The USS Ohio, one of America’s most heavily armed and secretive submarines,

Roughly 15 years ago, the U.S. Navy surfaced three Ohio-class SSGN missile submarines in a warning to China. However powerful a message that was over a decade ago, the military balance between Washington and Beijing has shifted.

Deploying naval vessels for supply missions allows the Chinese coast guard to extend its presence in the South China Sea.