In a significant boost to its naval capabilities, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy of China has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, during a ceremony on Wednesday morning at the military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545\", represents a new generation of frigates independently developed and constructed by China. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, this state-of-the-art vessel integrates advanced stealth technology, cutting-edge combat command systems, and enhanced firepower integration—marking a significant leap in the overall performance of China's naval fleet.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is poised to play a vital role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its commissioning underscores China's commitment to advancing its defense capabilities to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests.
In August 2023, the Ministry of National Defense confirmed the launch of the Type 054B frigate during a press conference. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized that the PLA Navy's development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement aligning with national security requirements and broader 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 stated, adding that China remains committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy.
The commissioning of the Luohe not only reflects China's growing naval prowess but also signals its ongoing efforts to modernize its military forces in line with its strategic goals. As regional dynamics evolve, this development holds significance for neighboring countries and global observers monitoring Asia's shifting security landscape.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
