Public Tours of China's New Aircraft Carrier CNS Shandong Open in Hong Kong

On Monday, Hong Kong opened public registration for tours of the CNS Shandong, China's domestically constructed aircraft carrier, along with its escort vessels. The tickets for the tours were eagerly snatched up within moments of their release, reflecting a strong local interest. The visit, scheduled from July 3 to July 7, is being heralded by local leaders as an educational experience in patriotism and a showcase of China's industrial prowess.

The public will have the opportunity to tour the Shandong on the upcoming weekend, during which they can observe its fighter jets and helicopters, in addition to witnessing training demonstrations. With 10,000 tickets issued for various tours—2,000 specifically for the Shandong and 8,000 for the guided-missile destroyer Zhanjiang and frigate Yuncheng—the ticketing process was managed through time slots via the People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison's WeChat account. Initial ticket rounds on Monday quickly filled up, prompting plans for additional releases the following day.

Gordon Lam Chi-wing, a deputy to Hong Kong's National People's Congress, remarked on the Shandong's significance as a technological milestone that surpasses that of the Liaoning, China's inaugural aircraft carrier. He noted the enhancements of the Shandong, such as its expanded hangar and advanced radar systems, as evidence of the nation's growing manufacturing strength. Reflecting on the enormous interest, Lam mentioned the striking comparison of how tickets for the current visit were claimed even quicker than those for the Liaoning's visit in 2017.

Lam emphasized that for younger generations, the Shandong signifies a representation of China's high-tech manufacturing capabilities. Wong Shu-ming, a Yau Tsim Mong district councilor and one of the ticket holders, described the visit not merely as an exhibition of warships but as an engaging platform for patriotism. She intends to host community sessions afterward to share the experiences with those unable to participate.

The visiting fleet features the advanced Type 055 destroyer Yan'an, known for its ability to launch hypersonic missiles, although it will not be accessible to the public during this event. Commissioned in 2019, the Shandong marks a significant leap for the Chinese navy, boasting upgrades like a more compact control tower and enhanced electronic warfare systems. This event draws a historical parallel to the 2017 visit of the Liaoning, which attracted long lines of residents eager to see the naval fleet.