Taiwan has conducted the maiden torpedo test firing of its first domestically developed submarine, marking a significant milestone in its indigenous defense programme aimed at strengthening deterrence against China.
The test was carried out on Wednesday by CSBC Corp, the state-backed shipbuilder leading the construction of the submarine project. In a statement on Thursday, the company said the vessel, named Narwhal, successfully completed its first torpedo test, validating key combat systems including detection, tracking, fire control, launch, and torpedo guidance.
The submarine had earlier conducted its first underwater sea trials in January. It is part of Taiwan’s broader plan to modernise its armed forces amid increasing military pressure from China, which claims the island as its territory and has intensified near-daily military exercises in surrounding waters.
Taiwan’s submarine programme is intended to enhance its ability to protect sea lanes and strengthen defensive capabilities in the event of conflict. The project has also drawn on foreign expertise and technology, including contributions linked to the United States and Britain, despite Taiwan’s diplomatic isolation.
The first submarine is reported to cost around T$49.36 billion ($1.57 billion) and is equipped with a combat system supplied by Lockheed Martin. It is also expected to carry US-made Mark 48 heavyweight torpedoes, although CSBC did not confirm the type used in the latest test.
The vessel was originally scheduled for delivery to Taiwan’s navy in 2024 but has faced delays. It is expected to be among at least two domestically built submarines that Taiwan aims to deploy by 2027, with future units potentially capable of carrying missiles.
Taiwan currently operates only two older submarines purchased from the Netherlands in the 1980s, while China maintains a significantly larger naval force, including aircraft carriers and nuclear-powered submarines, as well as ongoing development of advanced stealth platforms.
The submarine programme is seen by Taipei as a critical element in addressing the growing military imbalance with Beijing, which continues to expand its presence in the region through sustained naval and air operations.