The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) awaits acceptance of two more Type 052D-class guided missile destroyers this year following the recent commissioning of the CNS Xining (DDG-117).

Four more Type 052D destroyers -- the most modern destroyer in the PLAN -- are expected to be commissioned in 2018, bringing to 11 the total number of this type in service with PLAN by 2018.

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CNS Xining joined the North Sea Fleet after her commissioning on Jan. 22. Rear Admiral Zhang Wendan, commander of the North Sea Fleet, presented the PLAN ensign and naming certificate for the CNS Xining.

Chinese military media described the CNS Xining as "a homegrown guided-missile destroyer integrated with many new types of weaponry. The destroyer has high informatization level, advanced stealth capability and electromagnetic compatibility.

"The destroyer is mainly responsible for formation command, regional air defense, anti-submarine warfare and other missions."

To be commissioned this June will be the CNS Urumqi (DDG-118) followed by the CNS Xiamen (DDG-154) in November. Urumqi will join the North Sea Fleet while Xiamen will join the East Sea Fleet.

In 2018, PLAN expects to commission the CNS Guiyang (DDG-119); the CNS Nanjing (DDG-155) and DDG-156 and DDG-120, both of which have yet to receive a ceremonial name. All these four warships are currently fitting out.

PLAN claims the Type 052D is the equivalent of the U.S. Navy's Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, of which 62 are active.

The primary weapon of the Type 052D is its new vertical launching system (VLS) that can carry 64 surface-to-air missiles, cruise missiles, anti-submarine missiles and anti-ship missiles in combination.

Among the missiles the VLS can unleash are the YJ-18 or YJ-83 anti-ship missiles; HHQ-9 long range SAM; HQ-16 medium range SAM; DK-10A medium range SAM; CY-5 anti-submarine missiles and the CJ-10 land attack cruise missile.

The main gun armament on the destroyer is an H/PJ-38 130 mm dual purpose gun.

TagsPeople's Liberation Army Navy, PLAN, Type 052D-class guided missile destroyers, CNS Xining, North Sea Fleet, Rear Admiral Zhang Wendan