Chinese Navy Sails onto the World Stage

Military bands performing for the 60th anniversary of the PLA Navy.

April 23 saw an unprecedented parade of the People's Liberation Army Navy in the eastern port city Qingdao. The parade was followed by an international fleet review in which vessels from 14 countries participated. The parade also featured the first public appearance of two Chinese nuclear submarines. As a growing military power, the PLA Navy has become more open and confident. The parade, the largest ever of its kind, was to showcase the navy's military strength as well as provide a new strategy for developing a friendly image.