In a significant stride towards modernizing its naval air defense, Taiwan is set to produce between 1,200 and 1,376 Hai Chien II (Sea Sword II) missiles. This initiative aligns with the goal of standardizing missile systems across the navy’s surface fleet, following the recent successful live-fire testing of the Hai Chien II missile. The missile, a naval variant of the Tien Chien II air-to-air missile, was tested off the southern coast of Taiwan, marking a critical step in the country’s defense enhancement efforts.
Defense officials emphasize that the new missile system will replace outdated air defense weapons currently mounted on naval vessels, which are deemed insufficient against modern aircraft and emerging aerial threats. The navy’s current and future warships, including the Kang Ding-class frigates, next-generation light frigates, Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, and Yushan-class amphibious landing platform docks, require 688 Hai Chien II missiles for full operational capability. Furthermore, military logistics assessments suggest maintaining stockpiles of up to two times the number of operational missiles is essential, ensuring ample reserves for prolonged combat scenarios. This necessity contributes to the higher production targets for the Hai Chien II missiles.
Designed to integrate with ship-based vertical launch systems, the Hai Chien II missile offers enhanced range and 360-degree air defense coverage, providing a significant boost to the fleet’s capacity to counter threats from aircraft, drones, and missiles. As part of this modernization effort, Taiwan is also upgrading its Kang Ding-class frigates with advanced launch systems capable of deploying multiple Hai Chien II missiles. Meanwhile, designs for future warships are being developed with this missile as a central element of their air defense strategy.
This missile production initiative is a reflection of Taiwan’s broader strategy to bolster its maritime defense in response to escalating military activities and security challenges within the region. Through these advancements, Taiwan aims to fortify its naval forces, ensuring they are well-equipped to face contemporary threats and maintain a robust defense posture. The integration of the Hai Chien II missile system is poised to play a pivotal role in this ongoing enhancement of Taiwan’s defensive capabilities.