PLA Missile Destroyer Nanning and Frigate Hengyang Open to Hong Kong Public for Five-Day Visit

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) missile destroyer Nanning and missile frigate Hengyang have arrived in Hong Kong waters this morning (July 2) and will conduct a five-day open visit and cultural exchange programme until next Monday (July 6).

According to Xinhua News Agency, the two warships entered Hong Kong waters early today and will berth at Stonecutters Island Barracks, where they will be open to the public for boarding and tours.

The PLA Hong Kong Garrison announced that the vessels will be open to Hong Kong residents on Saturday and Sunday. A total of 14,000 free tickets will be issued on a real-name reservation basis. Children aged 11 and below may board without tickets but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The Nanning (pennant number 162) is a Type 052D guided-missile destroyer assigned to the Southern Theater Navy. Measuring 159 metres in length and approximately 17 metres in beam (note: original text appears to contain a typographical error stating “寬約5米”), with a full load displacement of 7,500 tons, the vessel is equipped with a four-faced phased-array radar and a 64-cell vertical launch system (VLS). It can fire HHQ-9 surface-to-air missiles, YJ-18 anti-ship missiles, and other munitions. Armed with a 130mm main gun, close-in weapon systems, and decoy launchers, the *Nanning* possesses comprehensive capabilities in area air defence, surface strike, and anti-submarine warfare.

Commissioned in 2021, the Nanning has participated in the 43rd escort mission in the Gulf of Aden and off Somalia, the evacuation of Chinese nationals from Sudan, and multiple multinational maritime exercises.

The Hengyang (pennant number 568) is the fourth Type 054A guided-missile frigate of the PLA Navy, currently serving with the destroyer flotilla of the South Sea Fleet. The ship measures 134 metres in length, with a full load displacement of approximately 4,000 tons. It is capable of independently or jointly engaging enemy surface vessels and submarines, and features strong long-range surveillance and air defence capabilities. Commissioned on 30 June 2008, the Hengyang has conducted multiple escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and off Somalia, and has visited countries including Portugal and France.

The two warships will be berthed at Stonecutters Island Barracks. They will be open to Hong Kong residents on 4 and 5 July from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Visitors must present tickets for entry. Each ticket-holding adult may bring at most one child aged 11 or below. For safety reasons, children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian holding a valid ticket.