Taiwan Initiates Construction of Anti-Submarine Warfare Frigate

Taiwan's private shipbuilder, Jong Shyn Shipbuilding, has initiated the construction of an anti-submarine warfare frigate as part of the country's efforts to enhance maritime defense capabilities in the Taiwan Strait.

As part of its naval modernization plan, Taiwan aims to replace decommissioned Knox-class frigates with a dozen light frigates, half designated for anti-submarine warfare and the rest for anti-air warfare. The frigates, expected to play a pivotal role in various missions, are set to be completed by October 2026, serving as prototypes for subsequent constructions.

The budget for these new-generation light frigates, allocated in the 2022 budget, is NT$24.6 billion ($777.7 million). Departing from initially planned heavy 4,500-ton class frigates, the decision to opt for smaller tonnage is aimed at enhancing sea control capabilities.

Designed by Gibbs & Cox, the frigates will feature two variants—one focusing on air defense and the other on anti-submarine warfare. They are expected to handle various missions in the "gray zone," including patrolling the Taiwan Strait, reconnaissance, escorting transport ships, securing sea lines of communication, and supporting military exercises and training.

Jong Shyn Shipbuilding marked the commencement of frigate construction with a ceremony in Kaohsiung on January 16. The shipyard, which entered into the contract on May 12, 2023, had previously initiated the construction of an anti-air warfare frigate on November 17, 2023.

Both vessels are slated for completion by October 2026.

Government renderings highlight differences between the anti-submarine warfare and anti-air warfare variants, including specific features such as towed-array sonar, triple-torpedo launchers for the former, and vertical launching systems for the latter. Both variants are expected to displace around 3,000 tons and measure approximately 115 meters, featuring advanced systems like BAE Systems' Artisan phased-array radar, deck-mounted launchers for missiles, a naval gun, and remote weapon stations.

The frigates will also be equipped with the CMS-330 Combat Management System, 76mm cannon, TC-2N SAMs, HF-3 ASMs, Phalanx Close-In Weapon System, and S-70C ASW helicopters. The AAW variant launches SAMs with VLS, while the ASW variant lacks VLS but uses fixed-angle launchers for SAMs. The frigates will also have light torpedo launchers, air-launched torpedoes, and towed sonar.