Type 054B-class (Jiangkai III)

Designated as a successor to the Type 054A frigate, this new class was the subject of military speculation throughout the 2010s. By the early 2020s, intelligence confirmed the development of the Type 054B, and the first two hulls were laid down in 2022. Both vessels were subsequently launched in 2023. The lead ship of the class, Luohe, was commissioned in January 2025, followed by the second frigate, Qinzhou, whose active status was confirmed in April 2025.

The Type 054B, also known by its NATO designation Jiangkai III, is a guided missile frigate that represents an evolution of its predecessor, featuring a longer and wider hull. The design incorporates an enclosed bow and a forward integrated mast topped with a dual-face rotating phased array radar. The stern is outfitted with systems for anti-submarine warfare, including a panel for a variable depth sonar and ports for deploying towed sonars and decoys. Its armament consists of a main gun, a vertical launching system, a gun-based close-in weapon system, and a launcher for air defense missiles. The ship’s aviation facilities include a helicopter pad large enough to support the Harbin Z-20. Propulsion is provided by a combined diesel and diesel arrangement.

Two frigates of this class are currently active in the People's Liberation Army Navy. The first vessel, Luohe, is assigned to the North Sea Fleet. The second ship, Qinzhou, has been deployed to the South Sea Fleet.