China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, during a ceremony on Wednesday morning at a military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province. The new frigate, designated hull number \"545,\" marks a significant advancement in China's naval capabilities.
With a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes, the Luohe represents a new generation of frigates independently developed and constructed by China. This state-of-the-art warship boasts cutting-edge stealth technology, advanced combat command systems, and integrated firepower, significantly enhancing its overall performance on the high seas.
The Luohe is designed for comprehensive combat operations and a range of diverse military missions. Its introduction is expected to play a vital role in boosting the combat effectiveness of the PLA Navy's task forces, contributing to the modernization and strategic capabilities of China's naval forces.
The launch of the Type 054B frigate was confirmed 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 a normal arrangement 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 said, emphasizing China's commitment to the path of peaceful development and adherence to a defensive national defense policy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
