Chinese Type 055 guided missile destroyers are capable of firing missiles at targets in a wide variety of locations. These ships are capable of launching a variety of anti-ship, surface-to-air and surface-to-submarine missiles. A range of hull mounted sonars are available to equip the vessels. These vessels are designed to be integrated with other Chinese naval forces in a battle group.
Type 055 vessels can have a length of around 180m and a displacement capacity of more than 12,000 ton. This vessel is a powerful and large warship being built for the People's Liberation Army Navy. It is a striking example of the PLA’s capability expansion as well the country’s shipbuilding endeavor.
Several Type 055 warships are already operational, while others are in various states of construction. In January 2020, Nanchang became the first ship in this class. In addition to the Nanchang, two more ships have been launched since then, while the fifth and sixth ships are in active service.
In the coming years, Type 055 vessel types will also be available for service. Li Jinwei was the Nanchang's senior Captain. He said that the vessel would perform a variety of missions, with an emphasis in regional security. He added that the vessel would be prepared for emergency situations at any time.
During recent maritime drills, China's new Type 055 destroyer has been undergoing evaluation and testing. Li said that the exercises were to enhance the skills of officers as well as make the ship more ready for combat. The vessel will continue on to other important missions in the coming year.
Type 055 ships feature a hull-mounted, variable depth sonar system. They are also equipped a 24-cell HQ-10, short-range air defence missile launcher. At the bow of the vessel, there is a 130mm naval gun. Two Changhe Z-18F helicopters are also aboard. According to western researchers, Type 055 could have a displacement around 13,000 tonnes. These estimates, however, are highly speculative and should never be considered as final figures.
As of right now, the PLA Naval has eight Type 055s currently in active duty and five more under construction. 16 more are planned. Each vessel has a maximum speed of 30k and costs more than six million yuan (US$890million). Powered by a combination of gas turbines and gas turbine propulsion systems, the Type 055's maximum power output is 28MW.
The Type 055's smoke stack is another unique feature. It reduces radar cross-section. This design allows it to keep stealthy characteristics but suppress radar and other infrared light signals. It is expected to have several types, including surface-to air and land-attack cruise weapons.
The Chinese navy's Type 055 destroyers have also been able to conduct aggressive submarine-hunting missions in the past few years. They are reported to be capable, despite not having the same range as US Navy's Zumwalt class stealth destroyers. However, the ships can spot and track smaller targets.