China has officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, located in east China's Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing hull number \"545\", is a new-generation frigate with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. Independently developed and constructed by China, the vessel represents a significant advancement in naval technology. It boasts enhanced stealth features, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities, which collectively enhance its overall performance.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of China's naval task forces. Its introduction into the fleet marks a step forward in the modernization of the PLA Navy.
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, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels by the PLA Navy is a normal arrangement aligned with national security requirements and 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 commitment to the path of peaceful development and adherence to a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
