Tang Shan, the flagship of the PLAN’s 48th escort task group, is a Type 052DL destroyer that recently wrapped up anti‑piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden. Da Qing, a 2015‑commissioned Type 054A guided‑missile frigate, had just finished the Sea Guardian exercise with the Pakistan Navy. Tai Hu, a 903A replenishment ship, provides fuel, water, food and ammunition for long‑range deployments.
The vessels were welcomed by the Chief Staff Officer of Chattogram Naval Area, a ceremony punctuated by a navy band playing traditional tunes. High‑ranking Chinese embassy officials and senior Bangladesh Navy officers also assembled, signalling robust diplomatic ties.
During the five‑day stay, the ships will make courtesy calls on the Commander of the Chattogram Naval Area, the Fleet Commander and the Port Authority chairman, and will tour Bangladesh Navy vessels, bases, and historic sites. A delegation of commanding officers and the Chinese military attaché will schedule these visits.
Amid the naval proceedings, Bangladesh Navy Chief Admiral Khondkar Misbah ul Azim met US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen, who praised the US‑Bangladesh defence partnership and highlighted US manufacturers’ readiness to support port modernization.
Locally, a Chattogram dockyard worker told reporters the arrival of the Chinese ships lifted spirits, offering a brief respite from the routine of loading oil containers. The goodwill tour is slated to conclude with the ships’ departure on 21 September, after which the Bangladesh Navy will debrief on joint‑training prospects.