Taiwan Launches First Domestically Made Submarine for Testing

• 29 Sep 2023

On 28^th Sept, Taiwan's president inaugurated the island's inaugural domestically manufactured submarine, commencing testing activities at a port in Kaohsiung.

Key Points

• U.S. Influence on Asymmetric Warfare: The United States has encouraged Taiwan to develop asymmetric warfare strategies, emphasizing investments in smaller and lighter weapons like the reduced-size submarine.
• This strategy aligns with Taiwan's efforts to bolster its military capabilities.
• Challenges and Construction Process: Following seven years of design and construction, the prototype will undergo testing in the harbour before venturing into the open sea.
• The submarine, named Hai Kun after a legendary Chinese fish, will be officially handed over to the military after successfully completing both harbour and ocean-faring tests.
• Taiwan plans to construct an additional submarine if the prototype proves successful, with both intended for deployment by 2027.
• Origins of Taiwan's Submarine Initiative: Taiwan initiated the challenging task of building its own submarines after encountering obstacles from Beijing, which prevented foreign purchases through economic and diplomatic pressures.
• China's increased military activities near Taiwan have prompted the island nation to enhance its defence capabilities.
• China's Response and Military Exercises: China's Defence Ministry expressed disapproval of Taiwan's submarine project, viewing it as detrimental to the prospect of reunification.