China has officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy during a ceremony held on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province.
Designated with hull number \"545,\" the Luohe boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. As a new-generation frigate independently developed and constructed by China, it features significant advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower.
The enhanced capabilities of the Type 054B frigate mark a substantial upgrade in the PLA Navy's operational efficiency. With its strong capacity for comprehensive combat operations and diverse military missions, the Luohe is set to play a vital role in strengthening the overall combat effectiveness of China's naval task forces.
Advancements in Naval Technology
The commissioning of the Luohe underscores China's commitment to modernizing its naval fleet. The frigate's state-of-the-art stealth features reduce its radar signature, making it less detectable to adversaries. Its advanced combat command systems enable more efficient coordination during missions, while the integrated firepower provides a versatile arsenal capable of engaging multiple threats.
The development of the Type 054B frigate is in line with China's broader naval development objectives, aiming to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests. It also reflects China's dedication to contributing to global and regional peace and stability.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
In August 2023, the Ministry of National Defense confirmed the launch of the Type 054B frigate during a press conference. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the PLA Navy's development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement to meet national security requirements and aligns with overall naval development plans.
\"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.
The commissioning of the Luohe represents a significant milestone in China's naval advancement, signaling continued progress in maritime capabilities and a commitment to maintaining stability in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
