China's first ship with helicopter goes into service
( 2001-12-23 15:21 ) (8 )

A ship carrying a helicopter for maritime search and rescue operations was put into service Saturday.

The ship is the first of its kind in China, and will make a great improvement to China's maritime emergency services, according to the Shanghai maritime affairs bureau director.

The ship, named Haixun 21, was built by the Shanghai Shipyard Company, and cost 90 million yuan (US$10.8 million), according to sources.

Two imported helicopters will join the ship soon, starting a new age in China's maritime rescue efforts, sources said.