China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has officially commissioned its 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, eastern 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 cutting-edge advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower. These enhancements significantly boost the warship's overall performance and operational effectiveness.
Equipped for comprehensive combat operations and a diverse range of military missions, the Luohe is expected to play a vital role in enhancing the overall combat effectiveness of naval task forces. Its induction into the fleet underscores China's commitment to modernizing its naval forces in line with its national security requirements.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed by the Ministry of National Defense during a press conference in August 2023. Spokesperson Wu Qian stated that the PLA Navy's development of key combat vessels aligns with relevant plans and the overall naval development objectives. He emphasized that this move aims to safeguard the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests while contributing to global and regional peace and stability.
Wu reiterated that China remains committed to the path of peaceful development and adheres to a defensive national defense policy. The expansion of naval capabilities serves defensive purposes and reflects China's role in promoting international security cooperation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
