China recently assembled two flotillas in waters near the Red Sea as it continues an escort mission that helps its fast-growing navy gain experience operating overseas.

The People's Liberation Army Navy is taking concrete actions to safeguard international sea lanes and regional peace and stability, China 's Defense Ministry said last month.

Why It Matters

China operates the world's largest navy by number of vessels, enabling it to expand its military activities beyond the Pacific. The first Chinese naval escort task group was sent to the Gulf of Aden in 2008 to protect the country's shipping interests amid piracy while giving its sailors experience in overseas operations, the Pentagon said.

The Gulf of Aden, off the Horn of Africa, links the Indian Ocean with the Red Sea —wher

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