Pacific Steller, a naval exercise conducted by aircraft carriers of the United States and France in conjunction with Japan, was a major display of maritime co-operation. Trilateral war games were held against the backdrop China‘s expanding naval capability, which underscored the strategic importance the Indo-Pacific.
Pacific Steller 2025: Strategic Importance
China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy is already the largest naval force in terms of hulls, and they are actively working to develop their aircraft carrier capability. Pentagon believes that China has entered the era of “multi-carrier forces” with two carriers in operation and another one expected to be operational mid-2025. This has led to increased collaboration and attention among allies in the region.
Joint Naval Exercise Details
Pacific Steller, as the exercise is officially called, began on 8th February and ended on 18th February. The drills were held in the Philippine Sea by the French Navy. This is a strategic marginal sea located east of the Philippines, and it’s strategically important.
USS USS USS USS USS USS Carl VinsonThe French Navy has a FS Charles de GaulleJSDF and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kaga. The JS Kaga In October last year, the US Navy conducted flight testing with stealth fighters from America. This was a major step towards interoperability.
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force released images of three aircraft carriers in formation with other naval vessels. Japanese Navy expressed its commitment towards strengthening the collaboration between the U.S. Navy, and French Navy for stability and safety in the Indo-Pacific Region. This commitment is part of a larger effort to counter any possible coercion and maintain an open Indo-Pacific.
U.S. Navy emphasized the main objective of the exercise, which was to enhance coordination and collaboration amongst the three naval forces. It also aimed at demonstrating America’s capability for power projection and reinforcing the shared commitment they have towards regional stability. This multi-large deck exercise was intended to demonstrate allied resolve and strength.
China’s Response and Regional Dynamics
In the Philippine Sea there were seven Chinese warships present, among them one that may have a laser-equipped ship. Pentagon officials have repeatedly stated that China’s navy is evolving to become a global force and expanding its operations beyond East Asia. The geopolitical situation in this region is becoming more complex, requiring a close watch and strong strategic alliances.
China’s state-run Global Times A Chinese expert was quoted as saying that Paris had exercised restraint in avoiding any operations on the South China Sea dispute. China’s extensive claims about the South China Sea are at odds with neighboring states. China has accused the Philippines, an ally of the United States, of inviting outside powers to participate in joint military exercises. This further complicates regional dynamics and maritime safety.
Statements by Naval Commanders
U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Michael Wosje is the commander of U.S. Navy’s Fleet. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is a group of strikers. Coordination of operations by USS Carl VinsonFS Charles de Gaulle. and JS Kaga Strengthen our alliances to deter adversaries. “We are excited to collaborate with our partners and allies who share this vision to create an Indo-Pacific that is open, inclusive, and free from coercion.”
Commander of the French Navy and Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group has commented: The French Carrier Strike Group will have the opportunity to collaborate with partners from the Indo-Pacific throughout the deployment. It has been some time since the Carrier Strike Group was deployed in this area of the world. While France is present through its territory, the Carrier Strike Group does not have a permanent presence there.
Shared by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force on X, formerly Twitter: France has been a valuable partner in Japan’s efforts to realize its potential. [Free and Open Indo-Pacific]Japan, France and. have collaborated all around the globe. French Navy involvement in the region is essential for the [Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force].”
Future implications
How far can you go? Charles de Gaulle’s The deployment of the aircraft carrier into Pacific Ocean is still to be confirmed. This is the first deployment of a French carrier in the Indo-Pacific region since 1968. It represents France’s renewed dedication to maritime safety in the Indo-Pacific. These future exercises are crucial to maintaining regional security, deterring aggression, and promoting maritime cooperation.