Chinese Navy task group heads for Iran following port visit to Pakistan

A Chinese PLA Navy task group composed of three ships completed a four-day visit to Pakistan’s Karachi port and set sail for the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas.

The ships are expected to arrive in Iran on Thursday.

During their time in Pakistan, Type 052C destroyer ‘Changchun’, Type 054A frigate ‘Jingzhou’ and Type 903A replenishment ship ‘Chaohu’ hosted Pakistani Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah and called on other senior Pakistan Navy officials.

Upon departure on June 14, PLA Navy ships were joined by Pakistan Navy ships for a passage exercise which included tactical maneuvers, anti-ship missile defense and go fast drills.

During their deployment, the Chinese warships are led by mission commander Rear Admiral Shen Hao, Deputy Commander East Sea Fleet.