In a significant boost to its naval capabilities, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has commissioned China's first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, at a ceremony held on Wednesday morning in Qingdao, Shandong Province. The advanced warship, designated hull number \"545,\" signals a new era in China's maritime defense strategy.
The Luohe, boasting a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, is a testament to China's strides in naval engineering. Independently developed and constructed, this new-generation frigate features cutting-edge advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower. These enhancements promise to significantly elevate the overall performance of China's naval fleet.
Designed for a range of missions, the Luohe is equipped to handle comprehensive combat operations and diverse military tasks. Its commissioning is expected to play a vital role in strengthening the combat effectiveness of naval task forces, contributing to China's ability to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed in August 2023 by the Ministry of National Defense. During a press conference, spokesperson Wu Qian emphasized that the development of key combat vessels is a normal arrangement aligned with national security requirements and overall naval objectives. \"This move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability,\" Wu stated, reaffirming China's commitment to peaceful development and a defensive national defense policy.
The commissioning of the Luohe underscores China's dedication to advancing its naval capabilities while promoting stability in the region. As global maritime dynamics evolve, the addition of state-of-the-art vessels like the Type 054B frigate reflects China's strategic focus on modernizing its navy to meet contemporary challenges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
