A Chinese navy fleet returned to a military port in Zhanjiang, Guangdong province, after completing escort missions and joint exercises. The fleet, which set off from Zhanjiang on February 21, 2024, traveled over 160,000 nautical miles during its 339-day voyage.
The fleet, comprising the guided-missile destroyer Jiaozuo, the missile frigate Xuchang, and the comprehensive replenishment vessel Honghu, safeguarded the security of international maritime trade routes and regional peace and stability.
The fleet also participated in a multilateral joint maritime exercise in Nigeria, the celebration of the 328th founding anniversary of the Russian navy, and an international navy festival in South Africa. It also visited Egypt and made technical stops in South Africa, Morocco, and the Seychelles.
China began dispatching naval ships to carry out vessel protection operations in December 2008 in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia.
7 Comments
Katchuka
“I’m skeptical—participating in international events doesn’t erase the fact that they’re flexing their military muscles.”
BuggaBoom
“It’s reassuring to see such commitment to protecting maritime trade routes and regional stability.”
Katchuka
“A 339-day voyage sounds excessive – what’s really being hidden behind this long operation?”
Noir Black
“Using exercises with countries like Russia to polish their image doesn’t make them peacekeepers in my view.”
Katchuka
“Such enduring missions give confidence to those who rely on safe maritime routes for trade and travel.”
Leonardo
“This looks more like a power play than a genuine effort to keep the peace.”
Rolihlahla
“Great job to Jiaozuo, Xuchang, and Honghu! Their role in safeguarding peace deserves recognition.”