China’s first aircraft carrier has successfully completed sea trials in the South China Sea, the Xinhua news agency reported on Wednesday. The aircraft carrier tested its combat system and conducted a formation practice and “attained the anticipated objectives” during its 37-day voyage, an unnamed naval source said. Aircraft, naval vessels and submarines also participated in the Liaoning’s tests. Early in the Liaoning’s trial run one of the Chinese ships accompanying it was involved in a near collision with a US Navy ship. It marked the two countries’ most serious sea confrontation in years. The US Pacific Fleet said the USS Cowpens had to maneuver to avoid a collision on Dec. 5.—AP