China has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, 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.
The Luohe, bearing the hull number \"545,\" is a new-generation frigate with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. Independently developed and constructed by China, the vessel features cutting-edge advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower. These enhancements significantly boost the frigate's overall performance, making it a formidable addition to the fleet.
Equipped for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military missions, the Luohe is set to play a vital role in enhancing the combat effectiveness of China's naval task forces. Its induction reflects the ongoing modernization efforts of the PLA Navy, aligning with the country's strategic objectives to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests.
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 development of key combat vessels is a standard practice to meet national security requirements and supports the overall naval development objectives. Wu emphasized China's commitment to peaceful development and its adherence to a defensive national defense policy, contributing to global and regional peace and stability.
The commissioning of the Luohe demonstrates China's growing focus on enhancing its maritime capabilities amid evolving global security dynamics. As the Asia-Pacific region becomes increasingly significant on the world stage, the modernization of naval forces plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and safeguarding vital maritime interests.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
