China Commissions First Type 054B Frigate, the Luohe, Boosting Naval Capabilities

China Commissions First Type 054B Frigate, the Luohe

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, the Luohe, on January 22, 2025. The ceremony took place at a naval port in Qingdao, East China's Shandong Province.

The Luohe, with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tons, is a new generation of frigate independently developed and built by China. It boasts advancements in stealth technology, combat command systems, and integrated firepower control, significantly enhancing its performance.

The frigate possesses strong comprehensive combat capabilities and diversified military mission capabilities, making it a crucial asset for improving the overall combat effectiveness of naval formations. It also plays a vital role in the transformation and development of the Chinese navy.

Key Features and Upgrades

The Type 054B frigate offers several significant upgrades compared to its predecessor, the Type 054A. Its larger size allows for enhanced firepower and the ability to carry larger utility helicopters like the Z-20.

The frigate likely incorporates many of the most advanced technologies used in the Type 055 large destroyer. This includes extended endurance, enabling operations in both coastal and far seas environments.

Expected Roles and Deployment

The Type 054B is expected to take on the missions of the smaller Type 056 corvettes in coastal waters and join the Type 055 large destroyers in far seas missions. Its balanced capabilities in anti-submarine, anti-ship, and air defense missions, coupled with its cost-effectiveness, make it a valuable asset for the PLA Navy.

The frigate can also operate as part of aircraft carrier and amphibious assault groups, providing escort in air defense and anti-submarine roles. Its deployment in Qingdao, the homeport of the aircraft carrier Liaoning, facilitates joint training with the carrier group.

Significance for China's National Defense

The commissioning of the Type 054B frigate demonstrates the PLA Navy's progress in equipment development and manufacturing, significantly enhancing China's national defense. With advanced warships like the Type 054B, the PLA Navy strengthens its comprehensive combat capabilities in far seas, better safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests.