Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province – As the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) commemorates its 77th founding anniversary on April 23, a public naval open day event offered a rare glimpse into the advanced capabilities of China’s modern maritime force. The event, held at a military port in southern China, highlighted the strategic roles of three frontline vessels that form a potent, integrated combat trio.
At the forefront is the CNS Nanning, a workhorse of the fleet. In an impressive demonstration of global reach and endurance, the ship has sailed approximately 320,000 kilometers in just five years – a distance equivalent to circumnavigating the Earth eight times. Its service record underscores its role as a rapid-response force, having been involved in critical operations ranging from civilian evacuations in Sudan to maintaining maritime security in the volatile waters of the Gulf of Aden.
The Nanning operates alongside two other key assets: the CNS Kunlun Mountains and the CNS Ulungur Lake. Together, these three vessels represent a comprehensive naval combat system designed for a multi-domain battlefield. This triad integrates formidable long-range strike power with robust amphibious assault capabilities and far-sea logistical support, allowing the PLA Navy to project power and conduct sustained operations far from its home shores.
The public display of this naval formation serves as a testament to the PLA Navy’s evolution. From a coastal defense force, it has transformed into a blue-water navy capable of addressing complex security challenges and contributing to international missions. The anniversary celebrations not only honor the service’s storied past but also showcase its contemporary readiness and technological sophistication, which are central to safeguarding national interests and promoting stability in regional waters.
