China has taken a significant step in bolstering its naval prowess with the commissioning of its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe. The ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province, marking a new era for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545,\" is a state-of-the-art frigate with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. Independently developed and constructed by China, this new-generation vessel features cutting-edge advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower. These enhancements are poised to significantly elevate the overall performance and capabilities of the PLA Navy.
Designed for a multitude of missions, the Luohe exhibits strong capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military tasks. Its induction is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing the combat effectiveness of naval task forces, contributing to China's maritime defense strategy.
The development of the Type 054B frigate was publicly acknowledged by the Ministry of National Defense in August 2023. During a press conference, ministry spokesperson Wu Qian emphasized that the PLA Navy's advancement of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement aligned with national security requirements and long-term naval development objectives. He stated that this move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability.
China remains steadfast in its commitment to peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy, Wu added, underscoring the nation's dedication to fostering stability in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
