Taiwan's First Indigenous Submarine, Hai Kun, Undergoes Harbor Acceptance Test

Taiwan's first indigenous defense submarine prototype, the Hai Kun (SS-711), is currently undergoing a harbor acceptance test, according to statements by Admiral Huang Shu-kuang, head of the Indigenous Defense Submarine program.

The submarine, launched on September 28 after seven years of development, is in the training phase for personnel on its systems and equipment.

Admiral Huang outlined the program's thorough supervision and audits by various government agencies, including the Legislative Yuan and the Control Yuan, asserting that no issues have been identified. The next phase involves a sea acceptance test (SAT) scheduled for the second quarter of the coming year.

Officials will conduct extensive testing on all of Hai Kun's equipment and systems to ensure compliance with specifications before proceeding with the SAT.

The Hai Kun has already passed inspections for welds and watertight components. Its development has become a topic in the elections, with opposition candidates expressing intentions to investigate alleged leaks of information to China by individuals involved in the program.

Regarding the submarine's NT$49.3 billion ($1.58 billion) cost, Huang explained the need for international cooperation with contractors for components not produced in Taiwan. He detailed domestic expenses, including the construction of workshops, purchase of machinery, labor costs, and procurements, citing an example of the U.S. supplying MK-48 torpedoes.

Foreign procurements reportedly account for 60% of the submarine's total costs. Huang emphasized that the program adhered to laws and underwent scrutiny through special reports and on-site inspections by the Legislative Yuan, Control Yuan, and the National Audit Office.

The Taiwanese government aims to build eight diesel-powered submarines, equipped with a Lockheed Martin Corp combat system and U.S.-made MK-48 heavyweight torpedoes, to bolster the existing fleet. The Hai Kun, expected to be commissioned in 2025 after sea trials, reportedly displaces around 2,500 tonnes and is 70 meters long.

While specific details of the Hai Kun's specifications have not been released, media reports suggest it features an X-rudder configuration for shallow-water operations and has received significant foreign assistance, with 40% of components being local.

Overseas support includes the sale of the AN/BYG-1 submarine combat management system and technical assistance from the UK and retired engineers from Japan's Mitsubishi and Kawasaki Heavy Industries.

Taiwan's current submarine fleet consists of two former US Navy submarines from World War II and two Dutch Navy boats acquired in the late 1980s.