The Chinese Navy fleet is now on its way to China's first deep-sea escorting mission against piracy.
 
The convoy, which includes two of China's most sophisticated naval destroyers, is heading for the Gulf of Aden where piracy has become increasingly common.

On the grand sailing-off ceremony, about 800 seamen in white Navy uniforms saluted crowds who saw them off at the country's southernmost naval port in Sanya, Hainan island.
 
Among the crew are 70 members of the Special Forces who are trained to effectively neutralize pirates in the event of an onboard attack.
 
Attending the occasion, Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Jieyi elaborated on the significance of the military move.

"The escorting mission of Chinese navy has won wide applaud from the international community, especially African countries. China is supportive of relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council and efforts of the global community in combating piracy. And we are willing to keep contact and cooperation with other countries' naval force on this issue."

The primary mission of the two destroyers, DDG-169 Wuhan and DDG-171 Haikou, and a supply vessel Weishanhu, is to join the multi-national efforts endorsed by four United Nations Security Council resolutions to patrol one of the world's busiest marine routes where surging piracy endangers inter-continental shipping.
 
Sun Jianguo, chief of staff assistant of the General Staff Department of People's Liberation Army, warns Chinese sailors of the potential challenges of the mission.

"This escorting mission is being conducted far away from China in a complex situation. Chinese sailors should be well-prepared in order to successfully and safely accomplish their mission."

After a 10-day voyage to the designated marine zone, the warships are going to start operations on Jan 6. They will respond to radio appeals in the high seas. This service will be provided free of charge to those in need of protection from pirates.