Chinese, US Navy ships maneuver off California

U.S. Navy cruiser USS Bunker Hill took part in a maneuvering exercise with People’s Liberation Army (Navy) ships off the coast of Southern California, December 9.

The Chinese Navy ships were departing San Diego following a three-day visit.

Jiangkai II-class frigates Yancheng (FFG 546) and Daqing (FFG 576), and the Fuchi-class oiler Tai Hu (AOR 889) joined Bunker Hill exercising communications and safety of navigation, and maneuvering into various formations.

“This was my first time participating in an exercise like this with our PLA(N) counterparts,” said seaman Jerika Robinson. “It gave me a better understanding of the way their [PLA(N)] ships operate.”

The latest visit was the third time Chinese Navy ships visited San Diego since 2014.