PLA navy opens warships to public in HK, blending military might with festive patriotism
發佈日期: 2025-10-01 21:31
TVB News
Two Chinese naval vessels -- the Qi Jiguang training ship and the Yimengshan amphibious dock landing ship -- are visiting Hong Kong this National Day, and have docked at the People Liberation Army's Ngong Shuen Chau naval base.
Starting today, the two warships are open to pre-registered visitors for a two-day public tour, offering a rare close-up look at China's maritime strength. Belting out the Cantopop classic "Boundless Oceans, Vast Skies" are navy soldiers, who set aside their usual military bearing as they welcome visitors -- about to step aboard the Qi Jiguang training ship and the Yimengshan amphibious dock landing ship on National Day.
Mr. Kwong here says he's lucky to secure tickets for the first public visiting slot today noting that the open day visit is more powerful than any patriotic publicity videos.
Visitors are also allowed to get up close to the ships' military equipment -- including, their machine gun turrets.
This military enthusiast -- visibly thrilled -- says the vessel is truly a giant.
MIKE: "I am very excited today to come to this ship. The whole China and the whole country used these weapons to defend ourselves and promote world peace."
Crowds streamed through the decks as tour guides explained the designs and functions of their vessels.
Among them, navy members using signal flags to spell out the messages -- "Hello Hong Kong" and "The nation's security benefits all families."
As things on board often need to be fastened securely, knot-tying is a key naval skill. At this interactive booth, visitors can learn from navy members personally to learn different practical knot-tying skills.
For the even bigger Yimengshan dock landing ship, visitors are treated to even more weaponry -- and are able to snap pictures next to the chaff launcher.
TOBY: "I am here today because it's the National Day and my mom's Chinese so I want to go on this boat and see what the Chinese military has to offer and what's national."
The latest display of Beijing's maritime prowess came around three months after the Shandong aircraft carrier group's high-profile stopover in July.
The visiting fleet this time includes more than 1,200 officers and cadets.
Visiting Hong Kong for the first time, naval trainee Song Yanyao shared a personal moment through a song as she expresses her appreciation towards the dazzling beauty of Hong Kong.
The two vessels will remain open for registered public visits through Thursday -- before departing Hong Kong on Friday.
