China's Haixun 21 starts patrol mission on waters of Xisha Islands (1/4)

China's patrol vessel Haixun 21 departs from the Yongxing Island of Sansha City, south China's Hainan Province, July 22, 2013. The patrol vessel set out for a five-day patrol mission on the waters of Xisha Islands in South China Sea. It will monitor maritime traffic safety, investigate maritime accidents, detect pollution, and carry out search and rescue work. (Xinhua/Zhao Yingquan)