China's new Type 054B frigate - more than just further development

China's new Type 054B Luohe frigate - more modern, heavier and capable of air defence

China's new Type 054B Luohe frigate was ceremoniously commissioned in Quingdao at the Yuchi Bay Naval Base at the end of January 2025. At around 5,000 tonnes, it is larger and more powerful than the previous 30 units of the standard Type 054A Jiangkai II-class frigate. The Luohe thus marks a clear technological leap in China's fleet strategy.

Chinese frigate Type 054B "Luohe", photo: chinadaily.com.cn/Li Tang

The new Type 054B Luohe frigate is not only heavier, but also significantly better armed: In addition to the tried-and-tested 8-cell sea-target missile containers, it has a modern 32-cell star silo for the entire range of FK armament. The new platform has undergone a generational change in almost all areas. Above all, its air surveillance radar clearly sets it apart from previous sub-hunting frigates and makes it a fully-fledged air defence frigate of the PLA Navy for the first time.

Further improvements include the new 100 mm main gun (replaces 76 mm), space for larger helicopters and a more powerful sensor system. These upgrades provide the Chinese navy with a platform with significantly expanded operational profiles - both at sea and in air defence.

With the Luohe, China is sending a clear signal: the new Type 054B frigate is a strategic step towards modernising the PLA Navy and projecting power in the Indo-Pacific.