China has taken a significant step in bolstering its naval capabilities with the commissioning of the Luohe, the nation's first Type 054B frigate. The ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province, marking a milestone in the development of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy.
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, this advanced warship features cutting-edge stealth technology, upgraded combat command systems, and enhanced firepower integration. These advancements significantly improve its overall performance and operational effectiveness.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a vital role in enhancing the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its induction into the PLA Navy underscores China's commitment to modernizing its maritime defense capabilities to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and developmental 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 normal arrangement aligned with national security requirements and the PLA Navy's overall development objectives. This move contributes to global and regional peace and stability, reflecting China's adherence to a defensive national defense policy and its commitment to peaceful development.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
