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.
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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.
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.
