在各国海军编成中,护卫舰是级别最多、用途广泛的水面舰艇。在战争时期,其主要使命是反潜和反舰;在和平时期,其主要任务是近海巡逻、保护经济区和渔区。截止1994年年底,各国和各地区的护卫舰总数约400艘。其中,35％的服役时间不足10年,32％的舰龄为10～20年,33％的舰龄已超过20年。另外,还有50余艘护卫舰正在建造之中。 In all navies, frigates are the most extensive and versatile surface ships. During the war, its main mission was anti-submarine and anti-ship operations; in peacetime its main task was patrolling the coast and protecting the economic and fishing areas. By the end of 1994, the total number of frigates in various countries and regions was about 400. Of these, 35% have been in service for less than 10 years, 32% for 10-20 years and 33% for more than 20 years. In addition, there are more than 50 frigates under construction.