Five Years of Service, 110,000 Nautical Miles, and a Modern Navy's Rise

Five Years of Service and 110,000 Nautical Miles

The Nanchang, the People's Liberation Army Navy's first Type 055 large destroyer, recently celebrated its fifth anniversary of active service. In this time, the warship has traveled over 110,000 nautical miles, participating in missions across diverse sea regions.

Commissioned on January 12, 2020, the Nanchang adopted the historic hull number 101, originally used by the PLA Navy's inaugural destroyer. It marked a significant leap for the Navy, transitioning from the third generation to the fourth generation of destroyers.

Since its commissioning, the Nanchang has covered a vast distance, reaching the Bering Sea, conducting combat cruises in the Pacific Ocean, and participating in exercises in the Xisha and Nansha waters of the South China Sea. It has successfully completed over 10 major missions, including escorting the aircraft carrier Liaoning, participating in the China-Russia Joint Sea-2021 exercise, and responding to close-in disruptions by a foreign aircraft carrier group.

The Nanchang's capabilities extend beyond escort duties. Its long sail range, detection range, and attack range, coupled with its advanced vertical launch system, allow it to engage in various combat missions. It can also command aircraft, surface warships, submarines, and amphibious assault ships, making it a versatile asset in the modern battlefield.

The Nanchang embodies the PLA Navy's growing presence in major sea regions. Since its commissioning, seven more Type 055 large destroyers have entered service, showcasing China's commitment to developing advanced naval capabilities.

Experts highlight the Nanchang's advanced air defense, maritime assault, and land strike capabilities. Its active electronic scanning array radars and over 100 missile vertical launch cells enable it to identify and engage targets at long ranges. It can function as a key escort in aircraft carrier groups and lead combat formations in far seas operations.

The Nanchang stands among the world's most advanced warships, playing a crucial role in safeguarding China's national sovereignty, security, and interests. Its five years of service and impressive track record demonstrate the PLA Navy's growing strength and commitment to protecting its maritime interests.