Taiwan is advancing its naval capabilities by planning to produce between 1,200 and 1,376 Hai Chien II missiles, a significant move to enhance its air defense systems across its naval fleet. This decision follows the successful live-fire testing of the Hai Chien II, a naval version of the Tien Chien II air-to-air missile, conducted recently in southern Taiwan. The new missile system is intended to replace outdated air defense weapons on naval vessels, which are deemed insufficient against modern aerial threats.
Military estimates suggest that the navy needs 688 Hai Chien II missiles to fully equip both existing and future warships. These warships include the Kang Ding-class frigates, next-generation light frigates, Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, and the Yushan-class amphibious landing platform dock. To ensure readiness during sustained combat operations, Taiwan’s military logistics assessments recommend maintaining stockpiles equivalent to 1.5 to 2 times the operational requirement, contributing to the ambitious production target.
The Hai Chien II missile is designed for integration with ship-based vertical launch systems, enhancing vessels with extended range and comprehensive 360-degree air defense capabilities. This modernization effort is poised to significantly bolster Taiwan’s fleet against aircraft, drones, and missile threats. In line with this, Taiwan is upgrading its Kang Ding-class frigates with new launch systems capable of accommodating multiple Hai Chien II missiles. Concurrently, future warship designs are incorporating the missile as a fundamental component of their air defense strategies.
This initiative is part of Taiwan’s broader strategy to fortify its maritime defense in response to growing military activities and security challenges in the region. By standardizing its missile systems across its naval fleet, Taiwan aims to ensure that its defense capabilities are robust and adaptable to evolving threats, thereby reinforcing its strategic defense posture.