The two-helicopter hangar can support Z-9, Z-18, or Z-20 aircraft. A Z-18 airborne-early-warning variant could give a surface action group a capability many peers still lack. Four propulsion gas turbines drive the ship, with a separate set of turbine generators supplying electrical power. The machinery figures are approximate, including an estimate of about 112 megawatts devoted to propulsion. Quoted performance is over 30 knots and 5,000 nautical miles at 12 knots.
Notable Point · 1:31:07-1:34:19
Type 055 combines two helicopters with a large turbine plant
Two medium helicopters offer possible airborne early warning, while separate propulsion turbines and turbine generators support a large, fast surface combatant.