32 VLS HQ-16 missile(50km-76km). The VLS system can handle mutiple load of missile depend on requirement.
Type054A firing HQ-16 SAM
View attachment 261954
or
loaded with ASROC
Picture comfirmed by janes defence
View attachment 261955
Noticed the tip of the missile is flat. Meaning most likely a ASROC. Anti-submarine rocket that will triumphed traditional ship launched short range torpedo for anti submarine.
I expect PLAN to configure Type054A to be 24 HQ-16 and 8 ASROC for a typical mission.
IN VLS system is foreign imported and the system is inflexible. It cannot handle different type of weapon payload. Barak VLS can only fire air defence missile and no others. While the one on CHinese frigate can handle many different type of missile. Making it very flexible and lethal. Just like MK 41 VLS.
Why do you think there is no need? Do IN warship sailed out alone for a mission?