The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has unveiled its second Type 054B frigate, Warship 555, in a newly released official poster, highlighting continued advancements in China’s naval modernization. The reveal comes ahead of the PLA Navy’s 76th founding anniversary on April 23 and shortly after the commissioning of the first Type 054B frigate, Warship 545 Luohe, in January 2025.
Featured in a commemorative poster shared by the PLA South Sea Fleet’s official WeChat account, Warship 555 is fully dressed with sailors on deck and appears structurally identical to its predecessor, Luohe, save for its hull number. While specific details such as the vessel’s name, location, or operational status remain undisclosed, its inclusion signals the official debut of the second Type 054B frigate.
Developed from the widely used Type 054A platform, the new generation Type 054B frigates are designed for far-seas operations. With an estimated displacement of 5,000 tons, they incorporate advanced stealth features, an upgraded combat command system, and enhanced firepower integration. Military analysts consider them a versatile and cost-effective asset poised to accompany China’s aircraft carriers and amphibious ships.
According to Chinese naval expert Zhang Junshe, the first Type 054B frigate operates under the North Sea Fleet, likely focusing on the Yellow Sea and East China Sea, while the second vessel is aligned with the South Sea Fleet, suggesting a deployment in the South China Sea. This dual-theater deployment strategy is intended to adapt the vessel class to diverse maritime conditions and accelerate operational readiness ahead of potential mass production.
The Luohe frigate has already commenced training exercises in the Yellow Sea, China Central Television reported in March. Experts anticipate that the Type 054B class will play a significant role in extending the PLA Navy’s operational reach and strengthening its presence in contested waters.
China’s Ministry of National Defense has defended the deployment of the new class, stating that the move is part of a broader plan to modernize the navy in line with national security objectives. “It is a normal arrangement addressing national defense needs and promoting regional peace,” Senior Colonel Wu Qian affirmed at a 2023 press briefing.
Global Times News Story With Additional Comments by the Global Defense Insight
