China's First Type 054B Frigate 'Luohe' Joins PLA Navy
In a significant advancement for China's maritime capabilities, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe. The 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,\" is a state-of-the-art vessel with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. Independently developed and constructed by China, this new-generation frigate features cutting-edge stealth technology, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities. These enhancements mark a significant leap in the overall performance of China's naval forces.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its introduction reflects China's ongoing commitment to modernizing its naval fleet and enhancing its maritime defense capabilities.
The commissioning of the Type 054B frigate was first confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during an August 2023 press conference. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels like the Type 054B is part of the PLA Navy's normal arrangements to meet national security requirements and aligns with 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 dedication to a path of peaceful development and adherence to a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
