China marked a significant milestone on Wednesday morning as it commissioned the Luohe, the nation's first Type 054B frigate, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The ceremony took place at a military port in Qingdao, located in east China's 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, the vessel represents a major advancement in the country's naval technology. The Luohe features cutting-edge stealth technology, sophisticated combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities, all contributing to a substantial enhancement in overall performance.
Equipped for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is set to play a pivotal role in bolstering the combat effectiveness of China's naval task forces. Its induction into the fleet underscores China's commitment to modernizing its naval forces in line with national security requirements.
The development of the Type 054B frigate was officially confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized that the PLA Navy's progression with key combat vessels aligns with China's broader naval development objectives. He stated that this is a normal arrangement essential for meeting the country's security needs.
\"This move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu said, noting China's consistent dedication to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
The commissioning of the Luohe not only enhances China's maritime defense capabilities but also reflects the nation's role in promoting stability in the region. As the PLA Navy continues to evolve, vessels like the Luohe will be instrumental in maintaining security and fostering cooperation on the high seas.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
