China has officially commissioned its first Type 054B frigate, Luohe.
The ceremony, held at a naval port in Qingdao, Shandong Province, was announced by the Ministry of National Defense on Wednesday morning.
Designated with hull number 545, the Luohe is a next-generation multi-role frigate with a displacement of approximately 5,000 tonnes. It features advanced stealth technology, an integrated combat command system, and state-of-the-art firepower capabilities, reflecting China’s ongoing modernization efforts in naval warfare.
The Luohe represents a significant step forward in the the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) operational capabilities. The ship’s advanced systems provide enhanced situational awareness, survivability, and versatility for a wide range of missions, from maritime security to high-intensity combat operations. The frigate’s stealth design reduces its radar signature, while the integrated combat command system allows seamless coordination with other naval assets.
According to the Ministry of National Defense, the Luohe was developed and constructed domestically, highlighting China’s growing expertise in naval shipbuilding. “This new-generation frigate significantly enhances the combat effectiveness of our fleet and will play a crucial role in safeguarding China’s maritime interests,” a ministry spokesperson stated.
The commissioning of the Type 054B frigate comes as China continues to expand and modernize its naval forces to address regional and global maritime challenges. Analysts have noted the ship’s enhanced firepower and adaptability make it well-suited for missions ranging from anti-submarine warfare to fleet air defense, reinforcing the PLAN’s ability to operate in contested waters.
The Luohe will join naval task forces to improve their comprehensive combat capabilities and contribute to broader military and diplomatic missions. Its deployment is expected to complement China’s strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific region.