This photo was from 2019, showing a black "platform" similar to VLS, did they initially wanted to install a VLS and later decided not to go ahead after some evaluation?
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That's probably the ramp for the HQ-7's reloader.
HQ-10 launcher does not mean there is no VLS behind it, like here.
But the direction of the VLS as it lays with its longest dimension would have to be port to starboard, instead of fore to aft. However it would only mean you have 16 missiles instead of 32.
The HQ-10 launcher would have to be installed right at the turntable used by the HQ-7 launcher, similar to why the HQ-10 launcher is installed on the turntable for the Shtil launcher on 136 Hanzhou.
There is space for 8 or 16 VLS at the back of the HQ-10 --- which is the position where the HQ-7 launcher is sitting--- , but lift off is close to the bridge windows.
I think they are building enough new 054A not to push with this.
At this point, I'm more interested to know if they are retaining the 100mm gun or go with the 76mm. They already made some changes to the platforms where the Type 345 radar and the Type 344 radar is sitting. The 345 radar has been taken out and the lip underneath it has already been cut. The 344 radar has been removed and the stand below it has been already lowered. If they put a Type 347 radar on the remaining platform, its going to be a 76mm gun they are putting, but if they returned the Type 344 radar, then its the old gun that is coming back.