China, Egypt hold joint naval exercise in Mediterranean Sea showcasing China’s naval ability to operate in distant waters for a longer period of time.
The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy recently conducted a joint naval exercise with the Egyptian Navy in the Mediterranean Sea, signaling the PLA Navy’s growing capabilities in blue water operations and strengthening ties with international navies.
Following a five-day visit to Egypt, the PLA Navy’s Type 052D guided missile destroyer Jiaozuo and Type 903A replenishment ship Honghu departed from Alexandria on Monday. They then engaged in a maritime exercise with the Egyptian Navy’s Al-Galala frigate, practicing communication coordination, formation maneuvering, and maritime replenishment.
The exercise saw both navies take turns commanding operations and successfully completing all planned training, culminating in a flotilla separation ceremony. During their stay in Alexandria, Chinese and Egyptian sailors participated in ship tours, professional exchanges, and friendly soccer matches, which bolstered the relationship between the two navies.
Prior to Egypt, the Chinese naval vessels visited St. Petersburg to celebrate Russia’s Navy Day and conducted joint exercises with the Russian Navy in the Gulf of Finland in July, showcasing strong bilateral ties.
Observers noted the significant distance covered by the Chinese warships, which set sail from Guangdong Province in February, completed escort missions in the Gulf of Aden, and traversed to St. Petersburg and Alexandria. This journey demonstrates the PLA Navy’s enhanced ability to operate in distant waters for extended periods, marking progress toward its goal of becoming a blue-water navy.
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