CCTV9英语新闻：新型导弹护卫舰吉安舰入列东海舰队（在线收听）

By CCTV reporter Shi Wenjing

A new guided missile frigate officially joined China's PLA navy on Wednesday in a delivery ceremony in Shanghai. The Ji'an was designed and built in China. 

Officers onboard light missile frigate Ji'an salute during a ceremony on Wednesday in Shanghai as it is commissioned for the East China Sea fleet of the People's Liberation Army navy. Photo: CFP

Officers onboard light missile frigate Ji'an salute during a ceremony on 

Wednesday in Shanghai as it is commissioned for the East China Sea fleet of 

the People's Liberation Army navy. Photo: CFP

A new addition to the East China Sea fleet.

The delivery ceremony was held in the century-old Wusong port in Shanghai.

The new generation Ji’an guided missile frigate is an upgraded version of a Chinese warship that is no longer in service.

“The warship is basically the same design as its predecessor, with minor modifications of some of the equipment for improved operation and maintenance." Shou Dasong, captain of Ji’an Frigate, said.

The ship was named after Ji’an city in Jiangxi province where China built its first generation missile frigate.

"The ship will contribute to the navy’s defense capacity. Its functions include antisubmarine combat, patrols and escort missions." Shou said.

The first generation Ji’an frigate was decommissioned in 2012 after making great contributions to the defense of the nation. Now the baton has passed to the new generation.