China Commissions First Type 054B Frigate Luohe into PLA Navy
In a significant stride for China's naval capabilities, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, on Wednesday morning. The ceremony took place at a military port in Qingdao, located in east China's Shandong Province.
Designated with the hull number \"545,\" the Luohe boasts a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. This new-generation frigate, independently developed and constructed by China, features advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and firepower integration. These enhancements markedly improve the vessel's overall performance and operational effectiveness.
Equipped with strong capabilities for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions, the Luohe is set to play a vital role in enhancing the overall combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its integration into the PLA Navy underscores China's ongoing efforts to modernize its maritime forces.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed earlier by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the ministry, stated that the development of key combat vessels like the Luohe is part of the PLA Navy's normal arrangements to meet national security requirements and aligns with broader 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 China's commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
