China Commissions First Type 054B Frigate \"Luohe\"
In a significant stride for its naval capabilities, the Chinese mainland has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province.
Bearing the hull number \"545,\" the Luohe boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. This new-generation frigate is independently developed and constructed by China, marking a milestone in the nation's shipbuilding industry.
The Type 054B frigate features advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower. These enhancements significantly boost the vessel's overall performance, providing strong capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions.
The addition of the Luohe is expected to play a vital role in enhancing the overall combat effectiveness of the PLA Navy's task forces. Its deployment underscores the navy's commitment to modernizing its fleet to meet national security requirements.
The launch 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 like the Type 054B is a normal arrangement in line with the navy's overall 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, emphasizing that China remains committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
