China to showcase nuclear subs, destroyers at major parade

China will showcase new warships, including nuclear submarines and destroyers, at a parade next week, marking the 70th anniversary of its navy’s founding, a senior army commander says.

The naval parade by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) on April 22-25 will feature a total of 32 vessels and 39 aircraft, China’s deputy naval commander Qiu Yanpeng told reporters in the city of Qingdao Saturday.

"At this naval parade the PLA Navy ship and aircraft to be revealed are the Liaoning aircraft carrier, new types of nuclear submarines, new types of destroyers, as well as fighter aircraft. Some ships will be revealed for the first time," Qiu said.

The parade, likely to be overseen by Chinese President Xi Jinping, will host a number of foreign navies from Russia, Singapore, India, Thailand and Vietnam.

More than 60 countries from five continents will send naval delegations, with more than 30 of them featuring major naval leaders, according to the Chinese military commander.

The event will also feature other activities, including high-level seminars, joint military music performances, and cultural and military exchanges.

"The Chinese navy has always been a peaceful force and will not pose a threat to any country," Qiu said.

"The Chinese Navy has not brought war, turmoil or uneasiness to any part of the world. It has always understood peace, cherished peace and defended peace."

Qiu said China’s armed forces will not pose a threat to anyone, rebuffing concerns about his country’s military actions/

China, he said, has been scared by its past and needs good defenses at sea. “A strong navy is essential for building a strong maritime country.”

EA