Chinese amphibious unit arrives in Thailand for joint drill

Some 115 officers and troops of the China Marine Corps amphibious special warfare unit, which will participate in the "Blue Strike-2010" Sino-Thai Marine Corps joint drill, recently arrived in Thailand via a Chinese air force transport aircraft.

The First Division's officers and troops of the Thai Marine Corps held a welcoming ceremony at the airport, and presented garlands with strong ethnic characteristics to the Chinese officers and troops.

It is understood that the Chinese contingent that is participating in the drill carried light weapons, underwater combat equipment, amphibious reconnaissance and anti-terrorism equipment. In the next 10 days, the two parties will be doing drill activities, such as display communication, mixed training and comprehensive training.

The is the first time forces from the Chinese navy that are not connected with naval vessels will conduct a joint drill with foreign armies abroad, and it is also the first time that the Chinese Marine Corps have gone abroad to conduct a joint drill with foreign armies.

The drill has an important and far-reaching significance for further consolidating and deepening the friendship between the two navies. It will enhance understanding and mutual trust, promote military exchanges and cooperation, and enhance the ability of anti-terrorism operations.

The joint drill will start on Oct. 28.

By Yan Meng, People's Daily Online