Type 037-class (Hainan)

The Type 037 corvette serves as a versatile naval asset, functioning primarily as a submarine chaser within the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). Developed to replace the Soviet S.O.-1 class, the Type 037 was designed with a focus on anti-submarine warfare but has extended its role to mine-laying and territorial patrol duties.

The origins of the Type 037 date back to the mid-20th century, with its production spanning from 1964 to 1982. Its service record includes participation in the Sino-South Vietnamese naval clashes in January 1974.

With regard to design, the Type 037 integrates a suite of sensors and processing systems including the Type 351 Radar for surface search and the SJD-3 telescoping high-frequency active sonar for submarine detection. Its armament consists of a combination of guns, ASW rocket launchers, mortars, and depth charge rails, for its primary role in anti-submarine warfare.

Over its operational history, the class has seen more than 100 completed units, with 67 still active in the PLAN. The operating countries for this class extend beyond China, with Bangladesh, Egypt, North Korea, Pakistan, and Myanmar all fielding these vessels.