Officially released photos and satellite imagery have captured United States and Chinese aircraft carriers across the Pacific Ocean over the past week, as both sides jostle for naval dominance in the region as part of their "great power competition."

The presence of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers symbolizes America's commitment to keeping the Indo-Pacific region free and open, the U.S. Navy said in a photo caption.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Why It Matters

Serving as floating air bases at sea, aircraft carriers are a key indicator of a nation's military strength. China and the U.S., which operate the world's largest and second-largest naval fleets by hull count, have three and 11 aircraft carriers , respectively.

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