The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has received its first Type 056 Jiangdao-class corvette in Shanghai, aimed at boosting its maritime defence capabilities amid the East China Sea Islands regional ownership disputes with Japan.
Designed as part of the ongoing military modernisation programme, the first helicopter-equipped Type 056 corvette, with hull number 582, will be deployed to patrol and escort ships and submarines during missions in waters it claims in the South and East China Seas.
A total of 20 Type 056 Jiangdao-class vessels have been ordered by China to replace its ageing existing fleet.
Featuring increased stealth and a sleek design to reduce clutter, the new corvette is armed with a 76mm main gun, 30mm remote weapon systems, YJ-83 sea-skimming anti-ship cruise missiles in two twin-cell launchers, as well as FL-3000N short range missile system, as reported by RTnews.
With a full load displacement capacity of 1,440t, the vessel has a range of 2,000nm and can cruise at a speed of 28k.
Capable of accommodating a crew of 60, the Jiangdao-class corvette also features strong electromagnetic compatibility and a wide application of advanced technologies.
Primary missions of the new frigate include patrolling, guarding and escorting, as well as anti-submarine operations, in addition to carrying out independent missions against sea targets or in coordination with other forces.
The PLA Navy aims at enhancing capabilities to defend its national security and territorial integrity, while safeguarding China’s maritime sovereignty, rights and interests.
Image: China has recently commissioned its first aircraft carrier, Liaoning. Photo: courtesy of N328KF.
