Satellite images show 50 per cent boost to China’s Type 054B missile capacity

Chinese military analyst says a larger munitions payload directly affords guided-missile frigate stronger independent combat capabilities

The previous version of the vessels had four eight-cell units, totalling 32 launching cells. However, the June 28 image showed a six-unit structure of what might be the same eight-cell system, allowing the new Type 054B vessel – which is still being outfitted at the Hudong Zhonghua shipyard – to carry 48 VLS cells.

Song Zhongping, a Chinese military commentator and former People’s Liberation Army instructor, said the vessel was possibly being fitted with a 48-cell VLS, as the Type 054B required stronger anti-saturation attack capabilities and enhanced regional air-defence capability.

“The previous 32 cells carry a limited range of missile types, which will affect its actual combat effectiveness,” he said.

“Increasing the cell count would directly boost its anti-saturation defence and overall combat capability. So an upgrade like this is entirely plausible.”