In a significant advancement for its naval forces, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy commissioned the first Type 054B frigate, named Luohe, on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545,\" is a new-generation frigate independently developed and constructed by China. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, the warship represents a leap forward in naval technology, featuring enhanced stealth capabilities, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower.
\"The commissioning of the Luohe marks a milestone in the modernization of our naval forces,\" said Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense. \"It demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests.\"
The Type 054B frigate is equipped to handle comprehensive combat operations and diverse military missions, significantly enhancing the overall combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its advanced technologies are expected to improve the PLA Navy's operational capabilities in various maritime scenarios.
The launch of the Luohe aligns with China's broader naval development objectives. According to Wu, the development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement to meet national security requirements and contributes to global and regional peace and stability. \"China has always been committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy,\" he added.
The commissioning of the Type 054B frigate underscores China's progress in maritime technology and its growing role in maintaining regional security. As the PLA Navy continues to modernize, vessels like the Luohe will play a crucial role in enhancing China's naval presence and capabilities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
