In a significant advancement for its naval forces, China has 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 naval port in Qingdao, located in east China's Shandong Province.
Designated with the hull number \"545,\" the Luohe boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. This next-generation frigate has been independently developed and constructed by China, highlighting the nation's strides in naval engineering and technology. The Luohe features cutting-edge stealth technology, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities, which collectively enhance its overall performance on the high seas.
The frigate's robust design equips it for a variety of missions, offering strong capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military tasks. Its induction into the PLA Navy is expected to play a vital role in bolstering the combat effectiveness of naval task forces, contributing to the safeguarding of China's maritime interests.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was officially confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense in August 2023. During a press conference, ministry spokesperson Wu Qian emphasized that the development of key combat vessels like the Luohe aligns with national security requirements and the PLA Navy's overall development objectives. He noted that this progression is a normal arrangement made in accordance with relevant plans.
Wu Qian also reiterated China's commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy. He stated that enhancing naval capabilities aims to protect the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing positively to global and regional peace and stability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
