China’s navy has commissioned a new-generation frigate as competition rises with the US and other regional powers, saying the ship will “play a vital role in enhancing the overall combat effectiveness” of its forces.

The former U.S. President Donald Trump has raised concerns about delays and cost overruns in the U.S. Navy’s frigate-building program. His comments highlight the challenges the Navy faces in modernising its fleet amid competition with China.

The first Type 054B frigate, christened the Luohe, was commissioned Wednesday in Qingdao, a port city in northern China where the PLAN’s northern fleet is based

China has commissioned its new-generation frigate, the Luohe, to enhance naval capabilities. The Type 054B frigate, equipped with advanced technology and weaponry, signifies a strategic move in its competition with the US.

China commissioned its first Type 054B guided-missile frigate in Qingdao, Shandong province, on Wednesday morning, according to the People's Liberation Army Navy.

Amid escalating competition with the US and regional powers, China's navy has commissioned a next-generation frigate, saying the ship will play an important role in "enhancing the overall combat effectiveness" of its forces. China boasts the world's largest navy by hull count, although its technological advancements often face scrutiny.

"Compared with previous frigate models in China, which were primarily tasked with anti-submarine operations, the Type 054B is also capable of performing fleet air-defense missions."