China has officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy during a ceremony on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province. The momentous occasion marks a significant advancement in the nation's naval capabilities.
Designated with hull number \"545,\" the Luohe boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. Independently developed and constructed by Chinese engineers, this new-generation frigate incorporates cutting-edge stealth technology, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower enhancements. These features collectively contribute to a substantial boost in overall performance and operational efficiency.
The Luohe is equipped to undertake comprehensive combat operations and a diverse range of military missions. Its deployment is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of naval task forces, ensuring readiness to address evolving security challenges.
The introduction of the Type 054B frigate was first 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 by the PLA Navy is a standard practice aligned with national security requirements and long-term 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, reinforcing China's commitment to a path of peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
The commissioning of the Luohe underscores China's ongoing efforts to modernize its naval forces, reflecting a strategic focus on enhancing maritime capabilities amid a dynamic international environment.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
