In a significant boost to its naval capabilities, China has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province.
Designated with the hull number \"545,\" the Luohe represents the latest generation of frigates independently developed and constructed by China. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, this state-of-the-art vessel boasts advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower, significantly enhancing its overall performance.
The Luohe's strong capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military missions position it as a critical asset in enhancing the combat effectiveness of China's naval task forces. Its induction is expected to play a vital role in safeguarding the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was initially 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 the navy's overall 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
