By Dr. Kevin Lau
In the intricate tapestry of national security, some threads can be entrusted to others, but some must be woven by our own hands. Consider daily life: while we may delegate household chores to helpers amid busy schedules, we must retain the knowledge to manage them ourselves. Without this, a helper’s absence could bring our routines to a standstill. Similarly, national defense is a sacred duty that cannot be outsourced. Entrusting it to others risks leaving us at their mercy, vulnerable to manipulation with consequences too grave to contemplate. Mastering core technologies and developing our own defense equipment is not merely prudent—it is an unyielding imperative, the lifeline of our sovereignty.
From July 3 to 7, 2025, Hong Kong welcomed a formidable naval fleet led by the Shandong aircraft carrier, joined by the Yanan and Zhanjiang missile destroyers and the Yuncheng missile frigate. The event, which included public tours and the Shandong’s inaugural public opening, ignited fervor among residents. Over 9,000 tickets for the weekend visits were snapped up instantly, a testament to the public’s enthusiasm. Visitors were particularly awestruck by the J-15T carrier-based fighter jet, unveiled to the public in November 2024 and now showcased as a pinnacle of China’s engineering prowess. This display stirred pride, connecting citizens to the nation’s technological might.
The necessity of self-reliance in defense technology is vividly illustrated by a recent incident in civilian aviation. Just as engines are the heart of fighter jets, they are the lifeblood of commercial aircraft like China’s C919. During heightened U.S.-China trade tensions, the U.S. government directed General Electric Aviation to halt exports of two engine models intended for China’s C919 and C909 aircraft to the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). Without engines, these planes are grounded; a disrupted supply chain would paralyze production. In a military context, such dependency would be akin to a sentinel disarming themselves—a peril of catastrophic proportions.
The stakes could not be higher in this era of unprecedented global change. Competition in defense technology will shape the strategic balance among world powers in the years ahead. Reflecting on China’s history during the late Qing and early Republican eras, when military weakness invited subjugation, we see the cost of vulnerability. To claim a rightful place on the global stage, a nation must wield unassailable strength. Today, as China strives to become a technological powerhouse and build a world-class military, elevating defense technology to a fully autonomous strategic priority is not just a goal—it is a necessity.
Hong Kong’s role in hosting this naval visit underscores its unique position as a global hub. The Shandong’s presence, drawing thousands to witness China’s advancements, reinforces national pride and showcases our city’s capacity to bridge the nation with the world. By facilitating such events, Hong Kong not only celebrates technological achievements but also strengthens its stature as a vital link in China’s global outreach. As we navigate this transformative era, let us seize this moment to fortify our resolve, weaving a future where self-reliance and strength propel our nation and city to new heights of prosperity and influence.
The author is a specialist in radiology, Master of Public Health of the University of Hong Kong, Founding Convenor of the Hong Kong Global Youth Professional Advocacy Action, and an adviser of the Our Hong Kong Foundation.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of DotDotNews.
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