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.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545,\" has a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. Independently developed and constructed by China, this new-generation frigate boasts advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and firepower integration, significantly enhancing its overall performance.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is set to play a vital role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its induction marks a strategic step forward in modernizing the PLA Navy and bolstering maritime defense.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels like the Luohe is a normal arrangement to meet national security requirements and aligns with 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 said, emphasizing China's commitment to the path of peaceful development and its defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
