The Type 052D destroyer, also known as the Luyang III class, is a class of guided missile destroyers currently in service with the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) of China. This class represents a major modernization over its previous iterations and is considered among the most advanced surface combatants currently operated by the PLAN.Technical Specifications:Displacement: The Type 052D has a full load displacement of about 7,500 tons, making it significantly larger than its predecessors.Dimensions: It typically measures about 156 meters in length, with a beam of 18 meters and a draught of 6 meters.Propulsion: The ship is powered by a combined gas and gas (COGAG) arrangement, featuring four QC-280 gas turbines. This setup allows for high speeds and efficient cruising.Speed and Range: The Type 052D is capable of reaching speeds up to 30 knots (56 km/h) and has a range of approximately 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 km) at 18 knots (33 km/h).Armament: The destroyer is heavily armed, with a 64-cell vertical launching system (VLS) capable of firing a variety of missiles, including HHQ-9 long-range air defense missiles, YJ-18 long-range anti-ship cruise missiles, and CY-5 anti-submarine missiles. It also features a 130 mm dual-purpose gun, close-in weapon systems (CIWS) for point defense, and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) torpedoes.Electronics: The Type 052D is equipped with advanced radar systems, including the Type 346A phased array radar, and has sophisticated electronic warfare and countermeasures suites.Aircraft Carrying Capability: The destroyer has a hangar and flight deck capable of operating one medium-lift helicopter, typically the Harbin Z-9 or the Kamov Ka-28, enhancing its anti-submarine and search and rescue capabilities.The Type 052D destroyers are considered integral to the PLAN’s blue-water ambitions, enhancing China’s ability to project power and maintain a presence in distant waters. They play a key role in air defense, anti-surface warfare, and anti-submarine warfare operations.