The Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy welcomed civilians aboard more than 40 active-duty vessels across 10+ cities today, marking its 77th founding anniversary. Visitors in coastal hubs like Qingdao, Shanghai, and Xiamen can tour guided-missile destroyers, amphibious landing ships, and hospital ships – many with operational histories in Gulf of Aden escorts and multinational exercises.
First-time public appearances include next-generation frigates docked in their namesake cities, emphasizing regional military-civilian ties. Naval personnel are conducting live demonstrations while themed exhibitions highlight technological advancements. Air force bases in participating cities also opened runways to showcase maritime patrol aircraft.
This year's expanded program builds on the PLA Navy's growing transparency initiatives, with 2026 seeing record public participation. Analysts note such engagements help demystify naval operations while fostering patriotism ahead of key military modernization milestones.
