PLA[N] 057 FFG, 1/2400

The alternative guess of the 054B to the "minimalist" guess of the 054B/054A++ is a "complete overhaul" version which the 054A is redesigned to be an mini air defense destroyer. These desgin changes might include:

1. The moving of the main bridge backwards covering the position where the YJ83 laucnhers were located. These launchers are now cancelled.

2. Modifying the main mast to accomodate a 4-surface ASEA to strengthen air defense.

3. Addition of a rear mast at the back of the exhaust to accomodate another ASEA for dual band operations.

4. Upgrade of the HQ-16 VLS to the universal ones on 052D.

5. Moving the two CIWS to the front of the bridge and aft.

6. Lengthen the helipad to accomodate a larger helicopter.

These changes will create a much more air-defense capable frigate with abilities close to a air-defense destroyer. However this makes the new frigate's role to overlap with the 052D destroyer with limited capability due to its small size. Since the 054A's role in the fleet is to cheaply compliment 052D and its need for air-defense is really mostly fighting with a 052D and benefit from its detection range through the data link system, designs of new frigates like this is very unlikely to come to reality.