China launches new missile destroyer (Photo-X)
PTI, Beijing. China is rapidly expanding its naval fleet. In this sequence, a new advanced missile destroyer ship has been launched. The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has inducted a guided missile destroyer named Laudi, which is fitted with advanced radar, weapons and network systems.
Loudi's crew member Zhang Shengwei said that this new warship uses a new system, which has enhanced combat capabilities in air defense, sea attack and task force command.
Zhang said it can not only carry out long-range attack and assault missions on its targets, but also protect allied ships in defensive missions.
Observers say the addition of the new ship highlights the pace of the Chinese navy rapidly expanding its fleet, which is adding one ship per month.
According to a recent report, the Chinese Navy has emerged as the world's largest navy, operating 234 warships, while the US Navy has 219 ships. With the induction of Laudi, the Chinese Navy has added 11 warships, including the aircraft carrier Fujian, by 2025.