The United States and its treaty ally Japan recently conducted a submarine exercise as they continue to strengthen their defense posture amid China's growing naval threat.

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

Why It Matters

China has the world's largest navy by hull count , part of a military buildup meant to challenge U.S. military dominance and its allies in the western Pacific. Japan, which hosts about 60,000 American troops, plays a key role in the U.S. island chain strategy aimed at defending against potential Chinese aggression by projecting military power.

Facing China's expanding military presence and reach through naval deployments, the U.S. Navy has deployed its nuclear-powered submarines across the western Pacific as a de

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