Xinhua posted on 21 February 2024 an article titled "China Sends New Naval Fleet for Escort Mission in Gulf of Aden."
The PLA Navy dispatched the 46th fleet to the Gulf of Aden to replace the 45th fleet as part of its continuing anti-piracy operation. The fleet consists of the guided-missile destroyer Jiaozuo, the missile frigate Xuchang, and the supply ship Honghu. It has over 700 officers and soldiers, including dozens of special forces personnel, and two helicopters.
Comment: The departing 45th fleet consisted of the guided-missile destroyer Urumqi, missile frigate Linyi, and supply ship Dongpinghu. The only engagement of the 45th fleet during Houthi attacks on international shipping through the Red Sea was the belated escorting of a few Chinese commercial ships.
