China Commissions First Type 054B Frigate 'Luohe'
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has officially commissioned China's first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, marking a significant advancement in the nation's naval capabilities. The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday morning 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. Independently developed and constructed by China, this new-generation frigate features cutting-edge stealth technology, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower capabilities. These enhancements collectively contribute to a substantial improvement in the vessel's overall performance.
Equipped to handle a wide range of combat operations and diverse military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a vital role in elevating the combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its induction strengthens the Chinese mainland's maritime defense and operational readiness.
The development of the Type 054B frigate aligns with China's broader naval development objectives. In August 2023, Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian confirmed the launch of the new frigate during a press conference. Wu emphasized that the PLA Navy's development of key combat vessels is a standard arrangement designed to meet national security requirements.
\"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's commitment to peaceful development and its defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
