The Liaoning aircraft carrier launched a surprise attack, catching the US and Japan carriers off guard!

The Japanese Ministry of Defense released a trajectory map of the Liaoning carrier group from December 8 to 9. It seems that the Liaoning performed a 'maritime mirage' in the western Pacific. Previously, the Liaoning was heading north, seemingly aimed directly at Tokyo Bay.

Unexpectedly, on the 9th, at a critical moment, it made a sudden turn, heading south or southwest, leaving the 'USS George Washington' strike group and the urgently departing Japanese 'Kaga' quasi-carrier empty-handed.

From publicly available information, on December 8, the Liaoning carried out about 40 takeoffs and landings of carrier-based aircraft, a frequency much higher than regular training levels, indicating a high state of combat readiness.

What's even more noteworthy is that a Type 901 high-speed combat support ship appeared in the group—this large supply ship, known as the 'carrier's milk mother', has high sailing speed, large capacity, and strong support capability, specifically designed to support carrier groups in prolonged high-intensity operations.

Its appearance signifies that the Liaoning is not conducting short-range drills but has the intention of sustained operations or even open-sea confrontations.

So, why did the Liaoning suddenly turn at this critical point near Tokyo Bay?

A reasonable explanation is that it was waiting for the Shandong. According to multiple intelligence analyses, the Shandong carrier group has also been active in the western Pacific recently, and if the two carriers can meet, it will be the first time a double-carrier strike group executes tasks outside the first island chain.

This 'double-carrier coordination' not only enhances tactical cross-cover and striking power but also sends a strong strategic signal; take it as you will, Takada Sato.