Recent movements of the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong had no specific target, said a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense on Friday.

Commercial satellite images show that the Shandong has recently shown up in the waters near the Philippines, with some analysts pointing to China's intention of deterrence, according to media reports.

In response, ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang said the Shandong went to the relevant waters to carry out far sea combat training, which is an annual routine arrangement and in line with international law and practice.

China's navy will organize similar exercises on a regular basis to continuously improve the combat capabilities of aircraft carrier groups, added Zhang.