Explained: Signal to China, U.S. deployment of 3 aircraft carrier strike groups

Amid U.S.-Russia escalation over Ukraine, a strong message has been sent to China - stay away from Taiwan. China sees Taiwan as a breakaway province, but an overwhelming number of Taiwanese feel they have a separate nation. The Taiwan Defence Minister has warned that China could mount a full-scale invasion by 2025. Concerns aren't just about Taiwan, China's claims over South China Sea have triggered a massive arms race. The large scale U.S. marine presence is also a warning to China about the Japan-controlled Senkaku Islands. The U.S. Navy build-up is a clear message to China that it can not have a free pass in the region.