The Kittiwake is a Chanticleer-class submarine rescue ship that was part of the U.S. Navy's fleet until it was decommissioned in 1994.

CNN: A worthy wreck for divers: USS Kittiwake

The Qingdao review did include an interesting addition to China's fleet, a Yuzhao-class amphibious-assault ship, which could be used to dispatch troops and helicopters over long distances.

ECONOMIST: China flaunts its naval muscle

As a testament to the skills required for the job, all marine pilots must hold a Master Class 1 Certificate, which essentially allows one to captain a ship of any size, anywhere.

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