Type 054 missile cells and a balanced weapons fit

The stated Type 054A and early 054B fits have 32 vertical-launch cells, with 48 on a later 054B batch. Forty-eight cells receive a favorable assessment alongside the ship's guns, other missiles and defensive equipment. A personal preference for roughly 64 cells in a frigate and 128 or more in a destroyer sets a more demanding benchmark. That preference does not prevent a positive judgment of the Type 054's overall weapons balance.