In total, four Type 054A were launched in 2017 by the two shipyards involved in the program. Since first ship of the class was commissioned in January 2008, the PLAN commissioned 25 Type 054A multi-mission frigates in just 9 years.



The relatively low operational (and through life support) cost, its versatility and comfort (which is reportedly very appreciated by PLAN sailors) make the Type 054A class the backbone of the PLAN blue water capabilities. The number of Type 054A to be delivered to the PLAN has been revised several times upwards.



Based on the photos taken by enthusiasts, this 29th frigate is launched at an advanced stage of completion: Major armaments - such as H/PJ-26 76mm main gun, VLS cells for SAM HQ-16 and ASROC Yu-8 missiles, CIWS H/PJ-11, ASW rocket launchers, decoy launchers and sensors and jammers - have already been installed on board. This will reduced the outfitting time pierside.



