Japan this week confirmed that two Chinese aircraft carriers have operated together for the first time in the Pacific.

By sending warships beyond Japan, the Chinese Navy is demonstrating its ability to project sea and air power far past its home waters.

China, which has the world's largest navy by hull count—deployed both of its two aircraft carriers in active service beyond the First Island Chain on Saturday. The island defense line, comprising Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines, is in place to keep China's forces in check.