The
Type 055 destroyer (NATO code name
Renhai[11]) is a
classof
guided missile destroyers being constructed by indigenous efforts for the
Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy Surface Force. The multi-role destroyer is designed for
air defense,
anti-missile,
anti-ship and
anti-submarine warfare.
[7][12][13] The sea platform is expected to play an instrumental role in China's future
carrier strike formations, and the vessel is one of the first among Chinese
surface combatants capable of
land attack missions.
[2][14]
The class features a
stealth design, including small
radar cross section, low noise,
infrared and electromagnetic radiation.
[12] With advanced
active phased array radar system and battle management system, the Type 055 destroyer will form China's anti-missile system together with the
052D destroyer, serving as part of the so-called Chinese
Aegis.
[15] The Type 055 is amongst the largest post-
Second World War warships launched in East Asia.
[16][17] The
United States classifies these ships as cruisers.
[11]