Satellite images reveal 50% boost in China's Type 054B missile capacity

China appears to be enhancing the missile capacity of its most advanced guided-missile frigate, the Type 054B, currently under construction in Shanghai. Satellite images captured on June 28 by US intelligence company Vantor indicate a significant alteration to the vertical launch system (VLS) at the bow of the vessel.

Previous versions of the Type 054B were equipped with four eight-cell units, totaling 32 launching cells. However, the latest image reveals a different configuration, potentially a six-unit structure of the same eight-cell system. This modification could allow the new frigate, still being outfitted at the Hudong Zhonghua shipyard, to carry up to 48 VLS cells.

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

Military commentator Song Zhongping explained that increasing the cell count would directly boost the vessel's anti-saturation defense and overall combat capability. He noted that the previous 32 cells limited the range of missile types, impacting its effectiveness. Song deemed such an upgrade "entirely plausible" for the Type 054B, which requires stronger anti-saturation attack capabilities and enhanced regional air-defense.

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