Taiwan is advancing its naval air defense capabilities with plans to produce between 1,200 and 1,376 Hai Chien II missiles, marking a significant stride in modernizing its fleet’s defense systems. This decision is propelled by the successful live-fire testing of the Hai Chien II, a naval adaptation of the Tien Chien II air-to-air missile, conducted recently in southern Taiwan. The initiative aims to replace outdated air defense weaponry on naval vessels, which are now deemed insufficient against contemporary aircraft and evolving aerial threats.
The Taiwanese navy’s modernization plans call for 688 Hai Chien II missiles to fully equip both current and future warships, including the Kang Ding-class frigates, next-generation light frigates, Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, and the Yushan-class amphibious landing platform dock. Military logistics strategies suggest maintaining missile stockpiles that are 1.5 to 2 times the number needed for operational systems, ensuring adequate reserves for sustained combat situations, which explains the higher production target.
Designed for integration with ship-based vertical launch systems, the Hai Chien II missiles promise enhanced range and 360-degree air defense coverage, significantly bolstering the fleet’s ability to counter aircraft, drones, and missile threats. As part of the modernization efforts, Taiwan is also upgrading its Kang Ding-class frigates with new launch systems capable of deploying multiple Hai Chien II missiles. Future warship designs are being developed with the missile system as a central component of their air defense strategy.
This missile production initiative underscores Taiwan’s broader commitment to bolstering its maritime defense capabilities amidst the rising military activities and security challenges in the region. By standardizing missile systems across its surface fleet, Taiwan aims to ensure a more robust and coordinated defensive posture in response to potential threats.