The Luohe, China's first Type 054B frigate, was commissioned in the People's Liberation Army Navy on January 22, 2025, at a military port in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province. (Social m edia)

The People’s Liberation Army Navy has commissioned its first Type 054B guided missile stealth frigate, designated Jiangkai III by NATO. Named Luohe, the vessel was unveiled at a ceremony on January 22, 2025.

Equipped with cutting-edge technology, this advanced warship is designed to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Chinese Navy.

Full load displacement of 5,000 tons

According to a Global Times report, the Type 054B frigate has a full load displacement of approximately 5,000 tons, striking a balance between agility and firepower.

Measuring 147 meters (482 feet) in length and 18 meters (59 feet) in beam, its design emphasizes hydrodynamic efficiency and reduced radar cross-section, enhancing stealth capabilities.

一口气看漯河舰完整版个人简历😄 pic.twitter.com/kmz8sUYbPR
— DS北风（风哥） (@WenJian0922) January 22, 2025

The Type 054B frigate uses a combined gas and gas (COGAG) propulsion system, which enables the frigate to meet modern naval combat demands, ensuring rapid deployment and high maneuverability across diverse maritime conditions.

Advancement in China's maritime strength

The report explains that its blend of stealth technology, advanced weaponry, and reliable propulsion, allows the Type 054B to play a pivotal role in China's strategy to "protect its maritime interests" and reinforce its presence in crucial areas like the South China Sea.

According to the report, China is expanding its naval strength, this frigate is poised to become a cornerstone of future maritime operations, solidifying the nation's position as an emerging naval power.

054B正常排水量约5000吨，满载排水量约5500吨😆 pic.twitter.com/6Nc140LP3W
— DS北风（风哥） (@WenJian0922) January 22, 2025

'A leap in capabilities'

Military expert Song Zhongping, in an interview with the Global Times, emphasized that the Type 054B represents more than just incremental advancements, marking a significant leap in capability and solidifying China's navy as a powerful regional force.

The larger size of the Type 054B is a significant upgrade, allowing it to carry advanced weaponry and larger helicopters like the Z-20. This improvement extends the frigate’s operational range and versatility, enabling it to project power far beyond China’s coastal waters.

Song suggests that the Type 054B likely incorporates advanced technologies inspired by the highly regarded Type 055 destroyer, which includes the integration of sophisticated radar systems, enhanced electronic warfare capabilities, and advanced missile systems, making the Type 054B a formidable platform for modern naval operations.

Type 054B is a direct challenge to the United States

The Type 054B frigate constitutes a strategic challenge to the US and its allies, particularly as tensions over Taiwan escalate.

In comparison to US Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Freedom-class littoral combat ships, the Type 054B stands out for its superior stealth and enhanced operational flexibility, providing a clear advantage in regional conflicts.

Its radar-evading design and advanced systems make it harder to detect, giving China a significant edge in near-shore naval operations.