051-type

    The 051-type, the first that China independently designed and manufactured, was designated the Luda Class by the NATO. On Dec. 31, 1971, the destroyer Jinan with the hull number 105 began serving in the North China Sea Fleet. It measured 132 meters in length and 12.8 meters in width, boasted a displacement of 3,250 tonnes, and had a maximum speed of 36 knots. The on-board weaponry included two sets of triple-missile launchers, two sets of 130-mm artillery guns, two sets of 57-mm anti-aircraft guns, two sets of 25-mm guns, two anti-submarine rocket launchers, and four sets of depth charge launchers. This model went through a series of refittings during its service, acquiring more advanced anti-ship missiles, and the replacement of guns and radar. Air defense missiles, anti-submarine torpedo launchers and helicopters were also fitted to some ships of this model.

    However, due to technological restraints, the 051-type was vulnerable to air and submarine attack. In order to mitigate these weaknesses, it went through continuous refittings, which resulted in all the ships being very different. Despite its shortcomings, it ended an era when the Chinese navy relied on imports. It also nurtured expertise in the design and use of large warships.

    The Zhuhai (hull number 166) of 051-type underwent a major refit