What should be done with a warship once its weapons and technology begin to rapidly fall behind the times? Some would coldly suggest scrapping it for metal or selling it off. But for those who invest not only billions into their fleet, but also their passion, such an idea would be nothing short of sacrilege!
That was exactly the conclusion reached by Chinese engineers and designers when they faced the question of the future of the Type 055 destroyers. How could they allow such power and beauty to be destroyed? Instead of sending these ships to the scrapyard, they underwent a comprehensive modernization, transforming them into vessels built for the realities of modern naval warfare. The ship was given a second life and was truly reborn.
Today, we'll take a detailed look at the final result of this remarkable transformation.
Historical Background
CN Project 055G is a modernized variant of the Type 055 destroyer. It is designed for devastating missile strikes, enhanced by a unique multi-purpose electromagnetic gun, while also featuring modular systems and expanded air defense capabilities. Equipped with advanced radar systems, an updated internal layout, new electronic warfare equipment, and upgraded propulsion systems, the ship is capable of carrying out combat missions even in the most dangerous operational environments.
The original Type 055 was developed as China's next-generation flagship multi-role destroyer. Its introduction marked a major milestone in the development of the Chinese blue-water navy. The ship features a large displacement, universal vertical launch systems, an advanced radar suite, and a high level of automation. The Type 055 is capable of escorting carrier strike groups, providing air and missile defense, engaging both naval and land-based targets, and conducting anti-submarine warfare operations.
The upgraded version represents a comprehensive modernization of the original platform, focused on maximizing combat effectiveness in modern conflicts. In addition to enhanced missile armament, the destroyer received an experimental electromagnetic artillery system, expanded electronic warfare capabilities, improved radar systems, and a modular architecture that allows its weapons and equipment to be quickly adapted for specific missions. Further improvements to the propulsion system and internal components increased the ship's reliability, survivability, and overall effectiveness, whether operating as part of a strike group or carrying out independent combat missions.
Gameplay
Don't expect a revolutionary gameplay experience from this new Chinese destroyer. Instead, it further refines the strengths that made its predecessors so effective. As Bruce Lee once said, "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times." This ship perfectly embodies that philosophy through its arsenal and combat style.
So what makes it such a formidable opponent? Like every other Type 055-class destroyer, it excels at engaging enemies from long range with missile strikes—and it has plenty of missiles to do the job. With a total of five anti-ship missile slots, it can reliably overwhelm even the strongest air defense systems (provided you've equipped the right missiles, of course). While the launchers are reloading, the enemy can be kept at bay with grenade launchers and the powerful RG-055G (130 mm) electromagnetic gun. The latter boasts exceptional accuracy and is even capable of effectively engaging airborne targets.
Speaking of aircraft, at first glance the ship's air defense arsenal may seem rather limited, but appearances can be deceiving. The LY-1G laser system delivers impressive firepower compared to similar systems and is highly effective at intercepting incoming missiles that manage to reach close range. The HQ-10A further strengthens the ship's defenses thanks to its rapid reload speed. Medium- and long-range aerial threats are handled by the HHQ-9CG air defense system. The true centerpiece, however, is the HQ-19 BMD missile defense system. Designed to intercept ballistic missiles at extremely long distances, it significantly enhances not only the ship's own survivability but also the protection of the entire team against this type of threat.
Armament
Missile Battery (AhM) — YJ-20 [x3]
Missile Battery (ASM) — YJ-20 [x2]
Gun — RG-055G (130 mm) [x1]🔒
Grenade Launcher — Type 726-4A [x2]
Helicopter — WZ-19 CAIC [x1]
Autocannon — Type 726-4A-24G [x2]🔒
Autocannon — H/PJ-17 (30 mm) [x2]
Air Defense — LY-1G [x1]🔒
Air Defense — HQ-10A [x1]🔒
Air Defense — HHQ-9CG [x1]🔒
Air Defense — HQ-19 BMD [x1]🔒
Conclusion
CN Project 055G is an excellent choice for both experienced captains and newcomers who enjoy the classic modern missile destroyer playstyle. And, of course, any team with this ship in its lineup can feel much more confident whenever aerial threats appear on the battlefield.