PLA aircraft carrier Shandong and warships make first Hong Kong port visit ahead of public tours
showcases major warships during
Hong Kong
port call
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has deployed several of its major surface combatants to Hong Kong, including the aircraft carrier
Shandong
, for a port visit that will include
public viewing opportunities
. The event is part of a broader effort to showcase
Chinese naval capabilities
and foster civilian engagement.
Footage released by the PLA shows the
Shandong
, along with the guided-missile destroyers
Yan'an
and
Zhanjiang
, and the guided-missile frigate
Yuncheng
, arriving at the port earlier today. This marks the first visit to Hong Kong for the
Shandong
,
Yan'an
, and
Zhanjiang
, according to reports. The
Yuncheng
has previously visited the territory.
Also read:
Taiwan detects 8 Chinese naval vessels around its territory
The port visit coincides with planned public tours, during which members of the public, particularly students and young residents, will be invited aboard the vessels from July 5 through July 6. The PLA has framed the open ship visits as part of efforts to enhance military-civilian relations and promote national defense awareness.
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The
Shandong
is China's first domestically built aircraft carrier and a key symbol of the country's expanding naval reach. The
Yan'an
and
Zhanjiang
are advanced guided-missile destroyers equipped with long-range strike capabilities and modern radar systems, while the
Yuncheng
serves as a multi-role frigate.
The arrival of the
Shandong
and its escort vessels comes amid rising interest in
regional maritime security
dynamics. The port visit also reflects ongoing PLA Navy efforts to increase the visibility of its fleet through domestic and international port calls.
The vessels are expected to remain in Hong Kong through the weekend before resuming regular deployment operations.
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