Taiwan has successfully conducted its first torpedo test firing from a domestically developed submarine, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to bolster deterrence against China's navy. The test, carried out by the Narwhal submarine, verified the combat system's operational capabilities, including detection, tracking, fire control, launch, and torpedo guidance.
The submarine project is a core component of Taiwan's military modernisation drive, as China escalates its military presence around the island with almost daily exercises. Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own territory, has prioritised indigenous submarine construction to safeguard vital sea lanes in the event of a conflict.
The programme has benefited from international expertise, including contributions from the United States and Britain. The first submarine, costing T$49.36 billion ($1.57 billion), will use a combat system by Lockheed Martin Corp and carry US-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes. Taiwan hopes to deploy at least two such submarines by 2027 and equip later models with missiles.
CSBC Corp, the Taiwanese company building a planned fleet of eight submarines, confirmed the test on Thursday. The Narwhal had been due for delivery in 2024 but has faced delays. Taiwan's armed forces are significantly smaller than China's, which operates three aircraft carriers and several nuclear-powered submarines.
