Qingdao, China – In a significant stride towards modernizing its naval forces, China's first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, was officially commissioned into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on Wednesday morning at the naval port in Qingdao, Shandong Province.
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, the vessel represents a leap forward in naval engineering, incorporating advanced stealth technology, sophisticated combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities. These enhancements markedly improve the frigate's overall performance and operational effectiveness.
Designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the combat readiness of China's naval task forces. Its induction signifies a step forward in aligning the PLA Navy's capabilities with national security requirements and broader development objectives.
The commissioning 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, emphasized that the development of key combat vessels is a planned arrangement to meet the country's security needs. He noted that this move aims to safeguard China's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability.
China remains committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy, Wu added, underscoring the nation's intention to enhance its defensive capabilities without posing a threat to other countries.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
