China Shows Off Modernized Type 051B Destroyer Equipped With New Vertical Launch System

China presented its modernized Type 051B destroyer “Shenzhen,” equipped with a new 32-unit missile vertical launch system, on Monday.

“The People’s Liberation Army Navy's (PLAN’s) sole Type 051B destroyer has gained very powerful combat capability after the modernization,” said Weihutang, a column on military affairs affiliated with China Central Television (CCTV).

Tong Zhenrong, deputy captain of the warship said that the Shenzhen’s new vertical launch system “allows it to host 32 ship-to-air missiles to shoot down incoming hostile aircraft and missiles.”

The boat joined military service as a fleet flagship in 1998. The Shenzhen undertook refit in 2017 that saw its capabilities significantly upgraded, allowing it to become a guided missile destroyer with the capability to command a joint operation fleet, Global Times reported, citing China Youth Daily.

“This capability allows the Shenzhen to integrate information gathered by every unit and distribute it to other units that need it,” Weihutang said.