2 Chinese naval vessels return home from European tour

(Xinhua News Agency October 18, 2007)

Two Chinese naval vessels were anchored in a military port here Thursday morning after an 86-day tour that has taken them to Russia , Britain , Spain and France .

The two ships -- guided missile destroyer Guangzhou and the supply ship Weishanhu -- traveled 22,968 nautical miles, crossing the Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the north Atlantic .

They visited Portsmouth in Britain , Saint Petersburg in Russia , Cadiz in Spain , and Toulon in France .

About 500 ratings and officers were on board the vessels. They joined activities for the Year of China in Saint Petersburg and held joint rescue exercises with the British, Spanish and French navies during the trip.

The Guangzhou -- 155 meters long, 17 meters wide and with a displacement of 5,800 tons -- is one of China 's newest naval vessels. Weishanhu is 178 meters long, 24 meters wide and has a displacement of 20,000 tons. Both vessels started service in 2004.