Ships from the People’s Liberation Army Navy 22nd Escort Task Group came alongside in Simon’s Town, South Africa for a formal visit from May 16-20, 2016.
The visiting group was constituted by Luhu-class destroyer Qingdao, Jiangkai II-class frigate, Daqing and the Taihu replenishment ship, Taihu.
The 22nd Escort Task Group is led by Rear Admiral Chen Qiangham. The visit marks the third time that the PLAN visited the South African Navy in Simon’s Town over the past 6 years, the last being in 2014 and this time they had just completed a patrol in the Gulf of Aden.
The Commander of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Admiral Wu Shengli and his delegation arrived at Cape Town International Airport on May 14, 2016.
Admiral Wu Shengli was welcomed by Flag Officer Fleet, Rear Admiral Bubele Mhlana during a courtesy call at the Fleet Command Head Quarters in Simon’s Town. The delegation visited SAS Simonsberg (Maritime Warfare Training Centre), toured on board the South African Navy Frigate, SAS Spioenkop and the South African Navy Submarine, SAS Manthatisi.
Upon their departure, the People’s Liberation Army Navy 22nd Escort Task Group also participated in naval exercises with the South African Navy.