Type 055-class (Renhai)

The People's Liberation Army Navy initiated a large destroyer program designated "055" in 1976. This initial effort was canceled in 1983 due to industrial and technical constraints, including the inability to produce or import required gas turbine power plants. Development resumed in the 21st century, and a full-scale superstructure mock-up was identified in Wuhan in 2014. Construction of the first vessel, Nanchang, began the same year at the Jiangnan Shipyard.

The Type 055 features a flared hull with stealth characteristics designed to reduce radar, infrared, noise, and electromagnetic signatures. The design includes an enclosed forecastle to conceal mooring and anchor equipment and a continuous amidships structure to increase internal volume. Propulsion is generated by QC-280 gas turbines in a combined gas and gas (COGAG) arrangement, with additional power provided by QD-50 gas turbines.

The class serves as a multi-mission platform with roles in area air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and command management of battlegroups. It utilizes an integrated mast and superstructure to house a dual-band radar system consisting of S-band Type 346B Dragon Eye and X-band active electronically scanned array panels. Electronic systems include navigation radars, electronic countermeasures, and laser-warning systems. For submarine detection, the vessels utilize a bow-mounted sonar alongside variable depth and towed array units.

The primary armament is housed in a universal vertical launching system (VLS) compatible with the GJB 5860-2006 standard, supporting both hot and cold launches. This system accommodates surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship cruise missiles, land-attack cruise missiles, and missile-launched torpedoes. Secondary armament includes a main gun, gun-based and missile-based close-in weapon systems, torpedo launchers, and decoy launchers. Aviation facilities consist of a stern landing platform and hangar space for medium-lift helicopters.

The class is designated as the Renhai-class cruiser by NATO and the United States. The lead ship, Nanchang, was commissioned in January 2020. An initial batch of eight vessels entered service by the end of 2022. A second batch is under procurement as part of the 14th Five Year Programme to reach a total of 16 units, with additional hulls currently under construction at Dalian and Jiangnan shipyards. In April 2021, the class began conducting carrier escort duties as part of the Liaoning carrier group. These vessels are assigned to the North Sea Fleet and South Sea Fleet. Future roles identified by the United States Department of Defense include serving as a platform for mid-course anti-ballistic missile interceptors.