Taiwan Navy's second batch of Tuo Chiang-class corvettes set for completion in 2026.

According to information published by Liberty Times Net on September 30, 2024, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has announced that construction of a second batch of Tuo Chiang-class corvettes is underway, with all five vessels expected to be completed by 2026.
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Republic of China Navy's Tuo-Chiang class corvette. (Picture source: Taiwanese presidency)

According to a ministry report submitted to the Legislative Yuan, five additional vessels began production earlier this year and are slated for completion by 2026, enhancing Taiwan’s surface fleet capabilities.

The report outlines the ongoing implementation of Taiwan’s indigenous defense initiatives, which include the expansion of its Tuo Chiang-class fleet. The first six ships from the initial batch have already entered service as of this year. These vessels are key assets in the nation’s asymmetric warfare strategy, providing highly maneuverable and heavily armed platforms capable of countering larger adversaries.

The Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, known for their agility and firepower, can reach speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour and are equipped with domestically produced missile systems. The initial prototype was armed with eight Hsiung Feng II and eight Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missiles. In contrast, the first batch of six follow-up ships now features a revised armament of 16 Sea Sword II air-defense missiles, eight Hsiung Feng II anti-ship missiles, and four Hsiung Feng III missiles. It is anticipated that the second batch may see further adjustments, potentially carrying four Hsiung Feng II and eight Hsiung Feng III missiles.

When completed and tested, this latest batch will bring the total number of Tuo Chiang-class vessels in service to 12, which will operate alongside 12 Anping-class patrol frigates currently deployed by the Coast Guard. Together, these ships are expected to play a pivotal role in Taiwan's asymmetric maritime strategy.

Other notable developments in Taiwan’s defense capabilities highlighted in the report include the delivery of 36 Brave Eagle advanced jet trainers and the anticipated arrival of a domestically-built rescue vessel, Ta Wu, later this year. Additionally, the indigenous submarine Hai Kun is scheduled for completion by November 2025.

In terms of foreign arms procurement, the ministry revealed that Taiwan has received expedited deliveries of key U.S. systems, including the HIMARS precision rocket artillery system, Javelin anti-tank missile systems, MQ-9B high-altitude drones, and land-based Harpoon missile systems for coastal defense.