China’s navy starts open water trials for new Type 054B frigate
- The accelerated progress reflects the demand for a new midsized combat vessel that is bigger and faster than its predecessor
- Observers expect the new frigate to play a greater role in anti-submarine operations
China’s new-model frigate Type 054B has begun open water trials, indicating an accelerated push towards commission by the Chinese navy.
The first ship of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN)’s next-generation frigate has appeared sailing on the Huangpu River near the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, where it is built, according to photos circulating on Chinese social media.
This vessel was reportedly launched five months ago, on August 26, 2023. The accelerated progress reflects an urgent demand of the PLAN for a new midsized combat vessel that is bigger and faster than its predecessor Type 054A.
The Type 054B is estimated to have displacement of about 6,000 tonnes, with about 147 metres (482 feet) in length and 18 metres in width, a significant expansion compared to the 4,000-tonne Type 054A.
The hull of the Type 054B features an integrated moulding and significant reduction of irregular convexity and opening, similar to the Type 055. This optimised shape is believed to have the benefits of shielding both radar and infrared signatures and increasing the vessel’s stealth capability.