China's military has denied that PLA electronic jamming caused two US Navy aircraft to crash in the South China Sea, dismissing allegations as "conspiracy theories." PLA analysts suggested instead that maintenance issues aboard the aging USS Nimitz or contaminated fuel may be responsible for the incidents.

A PLA Navy landing barge designed to create instant mobile piers has been spotted moving at sea, destination unknown. The Dong Gong 401, with its distinctive eight-legged design and 200-meter extendable ramps, is believed specifically intended for potential amphibious assault operations near Taiwan, where suitable landing beaches are scarce and heavily defended.