China has taken another step in expanding its naval capabilities by integrating the new Type 054B frigate for the first time into a carrier-led strike group in the Western Pacific.
The movement was confirmed by Japan after monitoring a Chinese naval formation composed of five vessels, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning and the frigate Luohe, the first ship of the new Jiangkai III class.
According to Japanese authorities, the naval group was detected sailing near Okinotorishima Island while fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters conducted operations on the deck of the Liaoning. The presence of the Type 054B drew attention because it marked the frigate’s operational debut in aircraft carrier escort missions, a role considered strategic for future long-range naval operations by the Chinese Navy.
Analysts point out that the composition of China’s naval force is increasingly approaching the model used by United States Navy carrier strike groups. The Type 055 destroyer would play a central role in air defense and strike operations, while the new frigate would be responsible for escort and anti-submarine warfare missions. Logistical support was provided by the massive Type 901 Hulunhu vessel, designed to sustain prolonged operations in distant waters.
The operation comes amid increased military presence in the Indo-Pacific and reinforces the rapid progress of China’s naval modernization. China currently operates three aircraft carriers, including the Fujian, equipped with an electromagnetic aircraft launch system.
For Japan and the United States, the rapid integration of the Type 054B into the operational fleet demonstrates the speed at which Beijing is expanding its military power projection capabilities in the region.
About a week ago on 19 May, the Japan Ministry of Defence reported sighting of China’s Type 054B frigate conducting its first ever mission to venture beyond the First Island Chain through the Miyako Strait. The Luohe (FFG-545) was on its way to join the Liaoning training exercise… pic.twitter.com/2SZTQA6t2l
— Eurasia Naval Insight (@EurasiaNaval) May 27, 2026
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Source: Naval News | Photo: X @EurasiaNaval | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
