Qingdao, China — In a significant advancement for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, China's first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, was officially commissioned on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545\", marks a new generation of frigates independently developed and constructed by China. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, the vessel showcases state-of-the-art stealth technology, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities, substantially enhancing its overall performance.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a wide range of military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its induction reflects China's ongoing efforts to modernize its naval fleet and safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense in August 2023. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement to meet national security requirements and aligns with the PLA Navy's overall 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, adding that China remains committed to peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
