Taiwan to Build 7 New Harpoon-Armed Attack Submarines

By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow

In a bold and strategic move, Taiwan has announced plans to develop seven new domestically-built submarines, each armed with submarine-launched Harpoon missiles. This ambitious project, according to Army Recognition, is slated to span 15 years with a substantial budget of NT$284 billion. The fiscal year 2025 budget proposal, encompassing this massive submarine project, has successfully navigated both executive and legislative approvals. The green light for mass production signifies Taiwan’s commitment to bolstering its maritime defense capabilities amid escalating regional tensions, particularly in the South China Sea and the looming threat from China.

The primary technological highlight of these submarines is their armament with advanced Harpoon missiles. Known for their destructive power, these missiles were successfully tested by the Taiwanese Navy in 2014, showcasing their ability to inflict significant damage on target ships. The inclusion of such sophisticated weaponry is a clear indication of Taiwan’s intent to enhance its deterrent capabilities. The NT$284 billion budget has raised eyebrows due to the higher cost per unit compared to the prototype submarine. However, military insiders have clarified that the prototype’s budget was limited to heavy torpedoes, whereas the production models will be equipped with both heavy torpedoes and Harpoon missiles. Additionally, the new submarines will feature enhanced combat systems, which further justifies the increased expenditure.

The seven planned submarines will collectively carry an impressive arsenal of 224 weapons, a significant upgrade from the 28 weapons carried by the older Chien Lung-class submarines. This increase in firepower underscores Taiwan’s strategic pivot towards a more robust maritime defense posture.

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The concept of building seven submarines dates back to former President Chen Shui-bian’s administration, with initial estimates for Harpoon missiles and MK-48 heavy torpedoes at NT$10 billion. However, over the past two decades, advancements in technology have driven up the costs of these munitions. Now, the current budget for these submarines will be incorporated into the annual defense budget, rather than being treated as a special allocation. This strategic financial planning ensures sustained funding from fiscal year 2025 to 2039. The construction plan is divided into three phases, with the first three submarines to be built at 18-month intervals, followed by two more in each subsequent phase, and incorporating performance enhancements at each stage.

Based on the progress of prototype testing, the contract stipulates delivery by the end of 2025. The construction of the initial batch of production submarines is anticipated to begin in early 2026, with the second batch slated to commence in late 2027. Taiwan’s decision to bolster its submarine fleet comes at a critical juncture, with rising tensions in the South China Sea. China’s aggressive posturing and militarization of disputed territories have heightened the need for regional powers to strengthen their defense capabilities. Taiwan’s enhanced submarine fleet, equipped with Harpoon missiles, serves as a formidable deterrent against potential Chinese aggression.