China's first Type 056 stealth frigate was delivered to the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) in Shanghai on Monday afternoon.

China's new frigate delivered to PLA Navy.[Photo/Xinhua]

The new generation of frigate, which is about to be put into service on a large scale, features good stealth performance and electromagnetic compatibility, according to a report released Tuesday by the official PLA Daily.

The new frigate requires only one-third of the crew needed by its predecessor, the Type 053, and it is expected to be deployed primarily for escort missions and anti-submarine operations, said the report.

The article said the delivery marked the beginning of a systematic upgrade of the navy's equipment and defense.

The new type will enhance the navy's capabilities in safeguarding national security, territorial integrity, marine sovereignty and marine interests, it added.