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14h ago

Taiwan Completes Maiden Sea Trial for First Indigenous Submarine

The submarine will undergo deeper underwater trials prior to its planned November 2025 handover to bolster Taipei’s asymmetric defense strategy.

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen speaks during the launching ceremony of Narwhal, its first domestically built submarine, in Kaohsiung, Taiwan September 28, 2023. REUTERS/Carlos Garcia Rawlins/ File Photo
Taiwan's indigenous submarine Narwhal conducts floating navigation tests in Kaohsiung Harbor on June 17, 2025.
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Overview

  • CSBC Corp’s Narwhal demonstrated key systems including propulsion, ventilation and radar during its initial floating navigation test off Kaohsiung on June 17.
  • Underwater testing phases will commence next, with depth gradually increased to validate combat readiness.
  • The vessel is equipped with a Lockheed Martin combat system and U.S.-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes for advanced deterrence.
  • The submarine programme aims to produce eight domestically built vessels, with the first delivery targeted by the end of November 2025.
  • Opposition parties froze part of the programme’s budget earlier this year but lawmakers plan to release funds following successful sea trial results.