On June 2, Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao reported: "China's newest 052D-class destroyer, the 'Tongchuan' (hull number 177), made its first public appearance last weekend, joining the 9th Destroyer Brigade of the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command Navy, further enhancing and consolidating the combat strength and status of this most powerful destroyer brigade in the navy.
Regular commissioning of naval vessels is a standard practice in naval construction worldwide. The commissioning of the Tongchuan marks an important step in improving the defense deployment in the South China Sea region. Looking back, during the 1980s and 1990s, China’s coastal fleet was relatively under-equipped, with limited capability for long-range maritime patrols. After decades of steady development, the mass production of the 052D series has become a symbol of the modernization and evolution of China’s navy. Currently, the 052D class ranks among the top in numbers among China’s active-duty main destroyers, with units deployed in batches across various theater commands according to operational needs. The South China Sea routes connect numerous international trade shipping lanes, and routine tasks such as escorting commercial vessels and responding to maritime emergencies are substantial. The addition of this new warship to a premier destroyer unit effectively fills gaps in regional readiness and strategic positioning.
Upgrading equipment does not equate to proactive confrontation. By strengthening defensive capabilities within our own maritime zones, we not only safeguard the security of our near-sea shipping lanes but also contribute to maintaining stability in economic activities and maritime order in the South China Sea!
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866846655387660/
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