China Commissions First Type 054B Frigate Luohe, Boosting Naval Strength
China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, marking a significant advancement in the nation's naval capabilities. The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province.
Designated with hull number \"545,\" the Luohe boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. As a new-generation frigate independently developed and constructed by China, it features state-of-the-art stealth technology, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower. These enhancements are expected to significantly elevate the vessel's overall performance in various maritime operations.
The Luohe is equipped to handle comprehensive combat tasks and diverse military missions, positioning it as a vital asset in strengthening the combat effectiveness of China's naval task forces. Its deployment reflects the PLA Navy's ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet in line with national security requirements and broader naval development objectives.
\"The development of key combat vessels like the Type 054B frigate is a normal arrangement to meet national security needs,\" said Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, during a press conference in August 2023. \"It aligns with our overall naval development goals and aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability.\"
China continues to emphasize its commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy. The commissioning of the Luohe underscores the nation's dedication to enhancing its maritime capabilities responsibly while promoting stability in the region.
