China has sent its largest naval formation to date into the South China Sea for live-fire drills, according to Reuters. The exercise adds to mounting friction in one of the world’s most contested waterways, where Beijing’s territorial claims overlap with those of several neighboring states.

The deployment comes as Washington and its Indo-Pacific partners continue to warn against actions they say could destabilize the region. The drills are likely to deepen concerns among countries that depend on the South China Sea for trade, shipping, and access to resources.

The South China Sea has long been a flashpoint between China, the United States, and regional allies. Military activity in the area is closely watched because even routine maneuvers can raise the risk of miscalculation, especially when rival forces operate in close proximity.

Reuters reports that this is Beijing’s largest naval task force for exercises in the disputed waters so far. The move underscores how military pressure in the region remains high, with no sign of a lasting reduction in tensions.