Since their commissioning in 2025, „Luohe“ (545, Northern Fleet) and „Quinzhou“ (555, Southern Fleet) have been assigned as the latest Chinese surface units of the Jinagkai III class (Type 054B). They could be two test platforms for new technologies - as has been observed several times in the Chinese navy - or they could be the first successful start of series production to replace the Jiangkai I and II class frigates (Type 054A).

This type of frigate, which has been built for more than 25 years, is considered the Chinese Navy's standard FC platform for presence operations in the Western Pacific and South China Sea as well as for show-of-force operations in the waters around Taiwan. At 148 metres in length and with a displacement of 6,000 tonnes, Type 054B is slightly larger, but is equipped with the latest generation of performance-enhanced sensors, particularly on the two integral masts, and also has a reduced reflective profile. With an unchanged 32-cell silo for the FK vertical launch, the 100 mm cannon and the FK-equipped short-range defence systems also represent an upgrade in terms of weaponry.

The rotating air surveillance radar, prominently mounted on the main mast, can be seen as an indication of improved air defence. At the beginning of February, the start of construction of a further Type 054B fuselage was registered by satellite, but this does not yet provide a clear answer to the question of series production.