In a significant boost to its naval prowess, the Chinese People\u2019s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, at a ceremony held on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province.
Designated with hull number \"545,\" the Luohe marks a new chapter in China\u2019s naval development. This new-generation frigate, independently developed and constructed by China, boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. It features advanced stealth technology, an integrated combat command system, and enhanced firepower capabilities, significantly elevating its overall performance.
The Type 054B frigate is designed to undertake a wide range of missions, from maritime patrol and escort duties to anti-submarine warfare and air defense operations. With its robust capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military tasks, the Luohe will play a vital role in strengthening the overall combat effectiveness of naval task forces.
The launch 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 PLA Navy's development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement aligned with national security requirements and overall naval development objectives.
\"This move aims to safeguard the country\u2019s sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu said, emphasizing China\u2019s commitment to peaceful development and its defensive national defense policy.
