Chinese analysts have called it a "major shift" in the country's mindset over security issues, while foreign media said the move could have "far-reaching consequences" beyond national shores.

All are paying close attention to the unprecedented deployment of a Chinese flotilla to Somali waters to join a global fight against increasingly rampant piracy.

The two destroyers - Haikou and Wuhan - and a supply vessel, Weishanhu, will carry two helicopters, missiles, cannons and a crew including special forces. They are scheduled to leave the port city of Sanya in southern Hainan province today for the Gulf of Aden on the three-month assignment.