China constructs fourth Jiangkai III frigate

Vantor imagery showing the third and fourth Type 054B frigates under construction at Hudong Changxingdao shipyard in China. (Satellite image © 2026 Vantor/© 2026 Janes)

Satellite imagery captured on 21 March indicates that China has begun construction of a fourth Jiangkai III (Type 054B)-class guided-missile frigate for the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN).

The vessel can be seen under construction at the Hudong Changxingdao shipyard just behind the third Type 054B frigate, which was identified by Janes in a January 2026 satellite imagery analysis.

This further corroborates earlier assessments that the Type 054B frigate programme has now moved beyond initial low-rate production and into serial construction.

In the satellite imagery, the fourth Type 054B frigate can be seen with its basic hull form and major structural sections clearly identifiable beneath multiple gantry cranes spanning the construction area.

Both the third and fourth hulls appear to be at an advanced stage of assembly, with their basic superstructure blocks already in place but without masts, sensors, or external fittings installed.

The fourth frigate has yet to receive its aft and forward superstructures, though these features are now visible on the third hull.

In addition to the gantry cranes, additional dockside cranes and equipment are visible nearby, along with stacks of materials and prefabricated sections laid out on the quayside.

The layout and density of activity, including the scaffolding around both hulls, suggest simultaneous production of the third and fourth Type 054B frigates at the yard.

The Type 054B is an evolution of China's long-serving Type 054A frigate, featuring a larger hull form, increased displacement, and significantly enhanced combat systems.