China sends aircraft carrier to Hong Kong

China deployed its only aircraft carrier to Hong Kong to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the return of the special administrative region.

Liaoning aircraft carrier strike group

The Liaoning (CV-16) aircraft carrier left the Qingdao naval base on June 27 for a training mission. The Liaoning is scheduled to visit Hong Kong next week, coinciding with Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the special administrative region, Sputnik reported.

The Chinese Navy plans to deploy three escort ships for the Liaoning, including two Type-052C/D destroyers, one Type-054A missile frigate, and an unspecified number of J-15 carrier-based fighters and various helicopters.

The Liaoning fleet is also expected to pass through the Taiwan Strait before arriving in Hong Kong. Taiwanese residents will be invited to visit the ship, which Hong Kong media said was a move to "demonstrate China's defense capabilities."

According to VNE