In the most formidable display of United States firepower in Hong Kong waters since the handover, a nuclear-powered submarine joined an aircraft carrier while an historic search-and-rescue exercise was under way.
The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Columbia was moored alongside the carrier USS Carl Vinson, also nuclear-propelled, near Lantau Island.
Officers said the timing of the port visits during the first joint exercise involving PLA and US forces was a 'coincidence'.
The show of force comes just before tomorrow's visit to the SAR by the US's most powerful officer in Asia, Admiral Joseph Prueher, commander in chief of the US Pacific Command.
The aircraft carrier's public affairs officer, Lieutenant David Waterman, said its port call was to give its 5,000 sailors 'rest and recreation' during their voyage to the Persian Gulf. The submarine was not part of its battle carrier group, he said.
The effect generated by the powerful warship was not lost on its sailors. 'Wherever an aircraft carrier goes it is an awesome sight,' said Lieutenant Waterman.
