PLA Navy Marks 77th Founding Anniversary — Record 40+ Vessels Opened to Public in 10+ Cities; Beijing Projects Naval Power

The Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy celebrated its 77th founding anniversary (April 23, 1949) on April 23, 2026 with record-scale open-ship events: 40+ active-duty vessels opened to the public across 10+ coastal cities including Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Ningbo, Xiamen, Guangzhou, and Sanya — the largest and most diverse such event in PLA Navy history. The vessels on display included guided-missile destroyers (Urumqi Hull 118, Qiqihar Hull 121), guided-missile frigates (Weifang Hull 550, Wuhu Hull 539), minesweepers, missile boats, amphibious landing ships, comprehensive supply ships, and hospital ships. PRC state media covered the anniversary with messaging emphasizing the PLAN's 'growing role in safeguarding peace' — a direct contrast to the simultaneous 15-sortie military pressure operation around Taiwan conducted on the same day. Analysts note the dual messaging on the anniversary: outward-facing naval display of soft power (public open-ship events) combined with a military pressure signal to Taiwan (15 sorties, 14 entering SW ADIZ) reflects Beijing's consistent dual-track approach of narrative management and coercive signaling.