Breaking the chain? Why Hainan holds the key to survival for China’s aircraft carriers
China's aircraft carrier base in Hainan is strategically vital for the PLA Navy's survivability and its ability to counter US influence along the first island chain. The Sanya naval complex, home to the advanced Fujian and the Shandong carriers, provides crucial maneuvering space and support facilities. This positioning is also seen as key to supporting a potential maritime blockade of Taiwan during a conflict. AI
