Satellite imagery shows a Chinese naval fleet in the western Pacific, which Australia—a key United States ally—is monitoring amid its possible approach to the country.

On Monday, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles confirmed the presence of the Chinese warships but refused to provide details, saying the military would continue to track their movements "until we know that task groups are not coming to Australia."

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, responded on Monday that the country's naval vessels always operate at sea in accordance with international law.

Why It Matters

China, which operates the world's largest navy by number of warships—with more than 370 ships and submarines, including three aircraft carriers—is steadily expanding its military reac

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