HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam (AP) — America sent a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier on a cruise through the South China Sea on Saturday, projecting its power in waters that are fast becoming a focal point of its strategic rivalry with Beijing.

The USS George Washington’s mission could raise hackles in China, which is locked in disputes with Vietnam, the Philippines and other governments over ownership of islands in the region.

Recommended Stories

Vietnam charges China with sinking one of its fishing vessels in South China Sea

US carrier begins operating in contested South China Sea

Pence warns China: No one owns the South China Sea