On a crisp Wednesday morning, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy marked a significant milestone at the military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province. The first of China's new-generation Type 054B frigates, the Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545,\" officially joined the naval fleet, signaling a leap forward in the nation's maritime defense capabilities.
The Luohe, with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, represents a major advancement in China's indigenous naval engineering. Built entirely with domestic technology, the frigate boasts enhanced stealth features, state-of-the-art combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities. These improvements significantly bolster its overall performance, positioning the Luohe as a formidable asset in maritime operations.
Designed for versatility, the Type 054B frigate is equipped to handle a wide range of missions, from comprehensive combat engagements to diverse military tasks. Its commissioning is expected to play a vital role in enhancing the combat effectiveness of naval task forces, contributing to the PLA Navy's objectives in safeguarding national sovereignty and security.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was first confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense in August 2023. During a press conference, spokesperson Wu Qian emphasized that the development of key combat vessels like the Luohe is part of the PLA Navy's normal planning to meet national security needs and aligns with broader naval development goals.
\"This move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu stated. He added that China remains committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy.
The commissioning of the Luohe underscores China's growing capabilities in naval technology and reflects its ongoing efforts to modernize its maritime forces. As the PLA Navy continues to expand and upgrade its fleet, vessels like the Luohe will play a crucial role in promoting stability and security in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
