Tours of the guided-missile destroyer CNS Nanning and guided-missile frigate CNS Hengyang were specially arranged for Hong Kong students on Friday, ahead of the naval vessels’ open-day events over the coming weekend.

On a five-day visit to Hong Kong that began on Thursday, the vessels will be open to the public on Saturday and Sunday. The 14,000 free tickets offered online were claimed within minutes.

CNS Nanning (Hull 162) is a domestically built Type 052D guided-missile destroyer capable of area air defense, anti-ship strikes, and anti-submarine warfare. According to media reports, it has participated in major missions, including escorting the 43rd Chinese naval escort task force in the Gulf of Aden, evacuating Chinese nationals from Sudan, and conducting multinational joint maritime exercises.

CNS Hengyang (Hull 568), a Type 054A Jiangkai-class guided-missile frigate, is equipped for surveillance, anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine operations. It has also taken part in numerous Chinese naval escort task forces in the Gulf of Aden, as well as major exercises and training missions.

China Daily photographer Andy Chong captured the eager wonder with his lens.