Military.com reports that “Despite the challenges, the Navy should double the number of American aircraft carrier strike groups operating in the Western Pacific, in part to counter China’s aggressive expansionism, analysts say.  

“Forward-stationing another carrier west of the international dateline was recommended in a Defense Department-commissioned report, “Asia Pacific Rebalance 2025: Capabilities, Presence and Partnerships,” published this year by the Center for Strategic and International Studies.  

“China’s growing assertiveness and increasingly capable air, naval and missile forces reinforce the need for more U.S. Naval forces in the region, especially carrier strike groups, the report said.”