China’s Fujian aircraft carrier recently made a noteworthy passage through the Taiwan Strait, a move confirmed by Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense on June 23, 2026. This maneuver marks its first crossing since April 2026.
The details of Fujian’s journey
The Fujian, China’s third and most advanced aircraft carrier, embarked on this journey through the narrow Taiwan Strait, a strategic waterway dividing China and Taiwan. The carrier is China’s first with electromagnetic catapults, which allow it to launch heavier aircraft compared to its predecessors.
During the December 2025 transit, Taiwan assessed there were no aircraft operations or overt military intent from the Fujian. The situation underscores the ongoing and heightened military presence in these contested waters.
Historical context and recent benchmarks
