Story perspectives

USS John Finn Crosses Taiwan Strait Amid Tensions

1/22/2026

Center

US Navy Navigates Taiwan

The USS John Finn and USNS Mary Sears transited Taiwan Strait January 19–20, 2026, marking year's first crossing.
The United States Seventh Fleet said the passage occurred in international waters, rejecting sovereignty claims over the strait.
China's Eastern Theater Command monitored ships and said its troops remain on high alert to protect sovereignty.
A Chinese surveillance drone entered Taiwanese airspace, prompting a warning from Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense.

Left

Zunyi Enhances Naval Readiness

The Chinese Type 055 destroyer Zunyi conducted a significant anti-submarine exercise in the South China Sea in January 2026, per Chinese state media.
The Zunyi's enhanced sonar systems and dual helicopter hangars enable improved submarine detection and operational range.
Over the past year, the destroyer has logged more than 50,000 nautical miles in training and drills.
The exercise underscores China's focus on strengthening naval readiness in strategically important waters.

History

Historical Context

The 1995 Taiwan Strait Crisis marked a significant escalation in tensions between China and Taiwan, triggered by the People's Liberation Army's missile tests near Taiwan from July 21 to August 25. In response, the United States, under President Clinton, deployed aircraft carriers, including the USS Nimitz, to assert its support for Taiwan, which has a population of over 23 million, shaping ongoing U.S.-China relations.

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US Navy Navigates Taiwan

The USS John Finn and USNS Mary Sears transited Taiwan Strait January 19–20, 2026, marking year's first crossing.
The United States Seventh Fleet said the passage occurred in international waters, rejecting sovereignty claims over the strait.
China's Eastern Theater Command monitored ships and said its troops remain on high alert to protect sovereignty.
A Chinese surveillance drone entered Taiwanese airspace, prompting a warning from Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense.

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