China has taken a significant step in bolstering its naval capabilities with the commissioning of its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe. The vessel was officially inducted into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, located in east China's Shandong Province.
Designated with the hull number \"545,\" the Luohe boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. This new-generation frigate, independently developed and constructed by China, features advancements in stealth technology, enhanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower, significantly enhancing its overall performance.
Equipped to undertake comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is set to play a pivotal role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of the PLA Navy's task forces. Its induction is expected to contribute substantially to China's maritime defense strategy and operational readiness in the region.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was first confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the PLA Navy's development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement aligned with national security requirements and overall naval development objectives.
\"This move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu said, emphasizing China's commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
