054/A FFG Thread II

[tphuang]

i would say these are certainly people with good background, so it's definitely more likely than not, but we will see in a couple of years if it's true.

 

[PanAsian]

i think unless the propulsion really changes, there is not much more you can add to the 054's hull without making it even slower. If they do indeed get to electric propulsion, then it seems to allow them to pack more while retaining or even improving speed.

Is the current 054A considered to be on the slow side?

 

[JayBird]

Is the current 054A considered to be on the slow side?

Most of the modern frigates around the world's top speed are between 25-30 knots. (and some crazy ship like LCS=40 knots) 054A estimated top speed is 27 knots. 052C is 29 knots, 052D is 30 knots, Liaoning carrier is 32 knots.

Some people think 054A will have a hard time keeping up with the future carrier group. And of course is better to have higher speed for anti-submarine Warfare. You can cover more area in shorter time and can chase them down faster.

 

[tphuang]

Is the current 054A considered to be on the slow side?

yes, the max speed of 27 knots is on the low side. You generally don't see CODAD propulsion on a ship of 054A size these days.

 

[asif iqbal]

20th unit is commissioned and more are under construction

This FFG has been very good for PLAN

The improved Type 054A could possibly have increased speed but I don't think it needs it as of now and China will continue to build FFG as they have proved very useful

Chinese CSG may just rely on DDG for escorts and use DDG for ARG and replenishment tanker escort

Either way a great FFG and a great production run

 

[A.Man]

578 of 054A, Yangzhou is commissioned

 

[PanAsian]

20th unit is commissioned and more are under construction

This FFG has been very good for PLAN

The improved Type 054A could possibly have increased speed but I don't think it needs it as of now and China will continue to build FFG as they have proved very useful

Chinese CSG may just rely on DDG for escorts and use DDG for ARG and replenishment tanker escort

Either way a great FFG and a great production run

Makes sense to assign faster DDG's as long distance escorts while these slower FFG's can be shorter distance escorts in China's near seas and have aircraft as backup.

 

[lcloo]

I don't think the top speed of 054A at 27 knots posed much problems. The past and present flotilla to Somalia, overseas visits etc has been sailed without problem.

Normal speed of a flotilla is less than 20 knots In order to maintain endurance and range. Moreover if you have to accompany slower replenishment ships, LPD and LST etc. you have to travel at even lower speed.

The set back of CODAD (Combined Diesel and Diesel) engines of 054A is sprint speed needed to reach a certain point at sea within critical time limit.

 

[SinoSoldier]

What exactly is the significance of speed in an environment where electronics and weaponry reign supreme?

 

[Jeff Head]

What exactly is the significance of speed in an environment where electronics and weaponry reign supreme?

In escorting aircraft carriers, it is critical.

Carriers look to actual speed to generate optimum air flow over the deck in air operations, and for mobility and safety. An FFG will need to be able to keep up, and that may require extended periods at or over 30 knots for certain carriers.

I think that is the issue some are raising.

Now, if the Liaoning and other future Chinese carriers cruise for air ops and for mobility happily at 28 knots, then the Type 054A will work fine.