Type 052D Kunming-class Destroyer

The Type 052D is China's primary guided-missile destroyer and the PLAN's most numerous large surface combatant. Features a 64-cell VLS (universal for HHQ-9 SAM, CJ-10 cruise missiles, and YJ-18 anti-ship missiles), phased-array radar, and modern anti-submarine capabilities. Often described as China's Arleigh Burke equivalent.

First commissioned 2014. With 35 in commission and more building, China has the world's highest destroyer production rate. The extended-flight-deck Type 052DL variant accommodates the Z-20 helicopter. Represents the standard surface combatant backbone of the PLAN alongside the larger Type 055.