China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, in a ceremony held on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province.
Designated with hull number 545, the Luohe represents a new generation of frigates independently developed and constructed by China. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, the vessel incorporates advanced stealth technology, enhanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower, significantly boosting its overall performance.
Equipped for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military missions, the Luohe is set to play a crucial role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of the PLA Navy's task forces.
The commissioning of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels by the PLA Navy is a normal arrangement in line with national security requirements and overall 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 said, adding that China remains committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
