China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, marking a significant milestone in the nation's naval development. The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, located in east China's Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545\", boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. This new-generation frigate, independently developed and constructed by China, features advanced stealth technology, state-of-the-art combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities. These enhancements significantly elevate the vessel's overall performance, positioning it as a formidable asset within the PLA Navy.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its induction reflects China's ongoing efforts to modernize its naval fleet and enhance maritime defense capabilities.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was officially confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized that the development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement aligning with national security requirements and the overall objectives of naval development.
\"This move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu stated, underscoring China's commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
