China relies on the Liaoning aircraft carrier’s increased lethal capabilities to fight any future wars arising out of disputed territorial claims in the South China Sea. China has already notified its citizens to prepare for war. Sputnik reports: Last week, Chinese TV boasted about the “growing combat capabilities” of its Liaoning (CV-16) aircraft carrier, noting that the battle platform can carry up to 20 fighter jets, bolstering Beijing’s balance of naval and aviation power in the Pacific rim amid growing tensions. Last Monday’s footage revealed the Liaoning carrying eight Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC) J-15 fighters, along with a Z-18 and a Z-9 helicopter, the largest number of aircraft yet seen on the carrier, suggestive of plans by China to build up its aerial presence in the Pacific Ocean. Speaking about the J-15 fighter jets during an August 4 program, Chinese Rear Admiral Yin Zhou said, “Once all eight aircraft fly out in formation, they have a strong combat capability.” He noted that the Liaoning can carry up to 20 aircraft, prompting Chinese media to further comment that the carrier exhibits “growing combat capability.” The presence of Z-18J airborne early warning (AEW) and Z-18F anti-submarine (ASW) helicopters, never before seen alongside the J-15 on the Liaoning carrier, represents a significant development in China’s joint aviation and naval capabilities, likely forming a full [...]