In a significant boost to its naval prowess, China has commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People\u2019s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, east China\u2019s Shandong Province.
Bearing the hull number \"545,\" the Luohe is a new-generation frigate with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. Independently developed and constructed by China, the warship integrates advanced stealth technology, sophisticated combat command systems, and enhanced firepower. These features collectively mark a substantial enhancement in the overall performance of China\u2019s naval forces.
The Luohe is designed to undertake comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions. Its induction into the fleet is expected to significantly augment the combat effectiveness of naval task forces, contributing to the PLA Navy\u2019s operational capabilities.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was initially confirmed in August 2023 during a press conference by the Ministry of National Defense. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized that the development of key combat vessels like the Luohe is a standard practice aligned with national security requirements and the broader objectives of naval development.
\"This move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu stated, highlighting China\u2019s commitment to peaceful development and its defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
