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, located in east China's Shandong Province.
The Luohe, bearing hull number \"545,\" boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. This new-generation frigate is independently developed and constructed by China, featuring cutting-edge advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower. These enhancements significantly elevate its overall performance, positioning the vessel as a formidable asset in maritime operations.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its introduction aligns with the PLA Navy's strategic objectives to modernize its fleet and bolster national security.
The existence of the Type 054B frigate was officially confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels is a standard procedure aimed at meeting national security requirements and supporting the navy's overall 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 said, emphasizing China's commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
