Chinese Navy Commissions Its First Type 054B Frigate With Advanced Capabilities

The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, Luohe, during a ceremony held on January 22nd, 2025 at the Qingdao Comprehensive Support Base in northern China.

The Luohe, launched in 2023, completed sea trials last year. It is described as a more advanced version of its predecessor, the Type 054A frigate.

The Type 054B is larger and more capable than the Type 054A, with an estimated displacement of around 5,000 tons. It features several upgrades, including a new design that prioritises stealth capabilities.

Its clean superstructure and overall shaping help reduce the radar cross-section, making it harder for enemies to detect.

The frigate is equipped with a variety of advanced features. It reduces the reliance on older Russian-derived equipment and focuses on indigenous technologies.

Some of the major upgrades include a new sensor array, with a two-sided rotating electronically scanned array (AESA) radar atop the main mast. The ship also features an advanced electronic warfare system on the secondary mast.

These sensors replace older Russian radars used in the Type 054A frigate.

Video Credits: CCTV Video News Agency/YouTube

The Luohe is armed with im…

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