China has officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, into the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy during a ceremony on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, Shandong Province.
Designated with the hull number \"545\", the Luohe represents a significant advancement in China's naval capabilities. With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, this new-generation frigate has been independently developed and constructed by China. It features cutting-edge stealth technology, enhanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower, substantially boosting its overall performance.
The Type 054B frigate is designed for comprehensive combat operations and a variety of military missions. Its induction into the fleet is expected to play a vital role in enhancing the overall combat effectiveness of naval task forces, contributing to China's maritime defense strategy.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed earlier in August 2023 by the Ministry of National Defense. During a press conference, spokesperson Wu Qian stated that the development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement in accordance with relevant plans to meet national security requirements and aligns with the overall 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 emphasized, adding that China remains committed to a path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
