China has taken a significant step in enhancing its naval capabilities with the commissioning of its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe. The ceremony took place on Wednesday morning 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. This new-generation frigate has been independently developed and constructed by China, featuring advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower, which markedly enhance its overall performance.
Equipped with strong capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and a range of military missions, the Luohe is set to play a vital role in boosting the combat effectiveness of naval task forces in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the PLA Navy's development of key combat vessels in accordance with relevant plans is a normal arrangement to meet national security requirements and aligns with overall naval 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 has always been committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy.
The commissioning of the Luohe marks a significant milestone in China's naval development, reflecting the country's growing capabilities in independent shipbuilding and military technology advancement.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
