Leaderboard

These four models represent variants of the Jianghu class frigate, including the Type 053H Jianghu-I, Type053H1 Jianghu-II, Type 053H1S Jianghu-II, and Type 053K Jiangdong, in service with the People's Liberation Army Navy. The Jianghu series frigates were all developed from the Riga class frigates obtained from Russia, and spawned a surprising multitude of variants and subtypes. In turn, they were later developed into the larger and more modern Jiangwei class frigates. The Jianghu-I is armed with six HY-1 Silkworm missiles in two rotating box launchers. It also carries two 100mm guns and four twin 37mm mounts for air defense. The Jianghu-II is armed with six improved HY-2 missiles, two twin 100mm guns, and the same 37mm armament of the Jianghu-I. It has been given a more contemporary light grey paint for recognition. At least one Jianghu class has been specially modified into the 053H1S naval fire support subtype, replacing the SSM launchers and aft island with five 50-tube rocket launchers. They have the firepower of an entire rocket artillery battery and are capable of coastal bombardment from up over 30km away. The Jiangdong, China's first attempt at SAM-armed air defense vessel, is equipped with two twin launchers for HQ-61 missiles, plus two twin 100mm guns and four twin 37mm guns. The missiles proved to be ineffective (and the launchers apparently lack any sort of automatic reloading system), so only two of the type were built. If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or constructive criticisms regarding this model, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you!