Overview
- The Narwhal, Taiwan’s lead indigenous submarine, conducted its first torpedo firing Wednesday in a test that CSBC said proved detection, tracking, fire control, launch, and guidance.
- CSBC announced the result Thursday and did not disclose which torpedo was used during the firing.
- The class is slated to use a Lockheed Martin combat system and carry U.S.-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes.
- The program has faced delays and high costs, with the first boat priced at T$49.36 billion after a planned 2024 delivery slipped.
- Taiwan aims to deploy at least two domestically built subs by 2027, with a longer-term plan for eight and possible missile-armed variants.