China Warships Debut: PLAN reveals details of Qingdao Apr. 23 fleet review
Updated 21:00, 23-Apr-2019
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Aside from the celebration, China hopes to discuss maritime security with naval leaders from all over the world. CGTN correspondent Han Bin has more from Qingdao.
HAN BIN CGTN SENIOR CORRESPONDENT PRODUCER, 'RED STAR, BLUE WATER' "China has big plans for this year's parade. 32 warships will sail past in a single column in 6 groups—submarines, destroyers, frigates, landing warships, supporting vessels and the carrier group.
39 naval aircraft will fly over in 10 echelons, including reconnaissance planes, fighters, carrier fighters and helicopters.
The spokesperson says some of the Navy's latest weaponry will be on display for the very first time. Though he didn't mention the details, as far as we know, one of the highlights will be the 10,000-ton destroyer, type 055 class, as the capital ship for the surface group.
Few countries in the world have developed warships of such a size and combat function.
Another highlight could be China's latest nuclear submarines. China says the growing transparency is not to show its might, but to show its confidence and willingness for exchanges with other navies.
There will also be 18 warships from 13 other countries. They include Russia's Admiral Gorshkov-class frigate, Japan's Akizuki-class destroyer Suzutsuki, the Philippines' strategic sealift vessel Tarlac, and India's tanker Shakti. Though the numbers aren't high, the composition reveals China's improved relations with neighboring navies.
The fleet review is a tradition for naval exchanges. China wants to use the 70th anniversary to improve understanding. The spokesperson says the PLA Navy will always be a force of peace and will never pose any threat to any country. It will provide more public service products to build this image worldwide."
Han Bin, CGTN, Qingdao.