China's naval prowess has taken a significant leap forward with the commissioning of its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe. The ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, located in east China's Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545,\" marks a new chapter in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy's modernization efforts. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, this state-of-the-art frigate embodies China's commitment to advancing its maritime capabilities. The vessel, independently developed and constructed, features cutting-edge stealth technology, enhanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower, all of which significantly boost its overall performance.
Designed for both comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its induction is a strategic move aimed at safeguarding the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was first confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, highlighted that the development of key combat vessels by the PLA Navy is a normal arrangement in line with national security requirements and overarching naval development objectives.
\"This move aims to contribute to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu stated, emphasizing China's commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
The commissioning of the Luohe underscores the Chinese mainland's dedication to advancing its naval capabilities while adhering to principles of peace and cooperation. As regional dynamics evolve, the Luohe is poised to be a significant asset in promoting stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
