Chinese Aircraft Carrier Shandong Docks in Hong Kong for Five-Day Visit

The Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong arrived in Hong Kong on Thursday, accompanied by a naval escort group, for a five-day high-profile visit that blends military showcase, public diplomacy, and symbolic patriotism.

The People's Liberation Army Navy aircraft carrier Shandong, China's first domestically built aircraft carrier, sails into Hong Kong for a five-day visit, in Hong Kong, China. REUTERS/Lam Yik

The fleet includes the Shandong — China’s first domestically built aircraft carrier — as well as the destroyers Zhanjiangand Yanan, and the guided-missile frigate Yuncheng. The ships are anchored near Stonecutters Island and at the western end of Victoria Harbour, drawing large crowds along the city’s waterfront and surrounding hillsides.

Strategic Timing

The timing of the visit is notable: it comes just days after the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to Chinese sovereignty, a date Beijing often uses to reinforce national pride and unity. Military analysts suggest the move is part of a broader push to promote patriotic education and demonstrate China’s growing maritime strength — especially amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

The visit follows a series of naval drills conducted by Shandong in the East China Sea and western Pacific earlier this year, often in parallel with operations by China’s other carrier, the Liaoning.

Military Diplomacy Meets Public Engagement

In an effort to engage the local population, the PLA has announced open-ship days over the weekend. A total of 10,000 tickets for public tours were distributed in advance and reportedly claimed within hours. Visitors will be allowed to explore parts of the ships, observe demonstrations, and attend informational sessions aimed at promoting “national defense awareness.”

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee welcomed the fleet during a ceremony at the PLA naval base on Stonecutters Island, stating:

“This is an invaluable opportunity for Hong Kong citizens to witness firsthand the achievements of China’s modern defense capabilities and to strengthen their national identity.”

Symbolism and Power Projection

The Shandong is a powerful symbol of China’s rising naval ambitions. Displacing around 70,000 tons and measuring over 315 meters in length, it is capable of launching dozens of fighter jets and helicopters, and serves as a floating command center for offshore operations. Its presence in Hong Kong is both a regional statement and a domestic messaging tool.

Observers noted that this is the second visit of a Chinese aircraft carrier to the city, following the Liaoning’s arrival in 2017 — a historic event that marked a new phase in Beijing’s effort to integrate military imagery into the Hong Kong narrative.

Regional Implications

The visit is likely to be closely watched by regional powers, particularly Taiwan, the United States, and Japan, all of which have increased maritime activity in nearby waters. While the official message centers on unity and education, the broader strategic undertone is hard to ignore.