Flash News: Taiwan’s First Indigenous Defense Submarine Hai Kun-class Narwhal Advances to Next Testing Phase.

China Shipbuilding Corporation (CSBC), Taiwan, has successfully completed two critical tests on Taiwan's first Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS), Narwhal, a Hai Kun-class submarine. According to information published on the YDN R.O.C. X account on February 28, 2025, the submarine has now reached a pivotal milestone with the completion of its "rolling test" and "quasi-submersible test," bringing it closer to the next phase of rigorous evaluations. The vessel will soon be floated into the test dock for subsequent main engine adjustments and mooring trials, which are key steps in its journey towards operational readiness. This marks a major advancement in Taiwan's indigenous submarine program and strengthens its self-reliant defense capabilities.
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A view of Taiwan's first Indigenous Defense Submarine, 'Narwhal,' a Hai Kun-class, as it progresses through its testing phase. This submarine is a key part of Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen its naval defense capabilities with indigenous technology. (Picture source: YDN R.O.C. X account)

The "rolling test" simulates the submarine’s behavior in rough seas, assessing its stability and ability to handle various sea states. Meanwhile, the "quasi-submersible test" evaluates the submarine's capacity to partially submerge, ensuring its ability to safely maneuver at various depths before being fully submerged. Both tests are vital to determining the overall seaworthiness of the Narwhal, which is designed to operate autonomously in Taiwan's strategic defense posture.

Following these tests, CSBC (China Shipbuilding Corporation) will proceed to the main engine adjustment and mooring trials, which will evaluate the submarine's propulsion systems and ensure it can perform efficiently in both operational and docked conditions. These trials are expected to lay the groundwork for the upcoming Sea Acceptance Tests (SAT), the final phase before the submarine enters service with the Taiwanese Navy. During the SAT phase, the submarine will undergo extensive trials to verify the performance of all critical systems, including propulsion, sonar, weapons systems, and communications.

The Narwhal submarine is part of Taiwan's broader efforts to enhance its defense capabilities amid escalating regional security concerns, particularly from China. The development of this Hai Kun-class submarine is a crucial component of Taiwan's strategy to bolster its naval strength with homegrown technologies. Unlike many other countries, Taiwan has faced challenges in acquiring advanced submarines due to geopolitical pressure, making its decision to develop an indigenous defense submarine a strategic necessity.

The Hai Kun-class submarine, a design tailored specifically to Taiwan's defense needs, is notable for its advanced features and capabilities. The submarine measures approximately 70 meters in length and has a submerged displacement of over 2,500 tons. It is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system, which allows it to operate efficiently while maintaining a low acoustic signature, essential for stealth operations. Its hull is constructed using advanced composite materials and coatings to further reduce detectability and improve durability in harsh maritime environments.

In terms of weapons systems, the Narwhal is expected to carry a variety of anti-ship missiles and torpedoes, designed for high effectiveness in countering surface ships and submarines. The vessel will likely integrate Taiwan's Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missile system, a highly capable supersonic missile that can target enemy warships with high precision. The submarine is also expected to be equipped with modern sonar and electronic warfare systems, enhancing its surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat capabilities.

The development of the Hai Kun-class submarine program marks a significant leap in Taiwan’s defense industry. Over the past several decades, Taiwan has worked to reduce its dependency on foreign defense systems, seeking to strengthen its self-defense capabilities through homegrown technologies. The Narwhal is a prime example of this shift, highlighting Taiwan's growing expertise in naval technology and its determination to maintain a credible deterrent against potential adversaries.

CSBC Corporation, as the primary contractor behind the Narwhal's development, has a long history of shipbuilding and defense technology expertise. Established in 1973, CSBC is one of Taiwan's leading shipbuilding companies, with a proven track record of constructing both commercial and military vessels. The company's work on the Indigenous Defense Submarine underscores its capabilities in complex naval engineering, and its success in these tests reflects the company's deep commitment to ensuring that Taiwan's military is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

As Taiwan continues to prioritize its defense self-reliance, the Narwhal will play a central role in the island’s naval defense strategy. The Hai Kun-class submarine, with its advanced propulsion systems, stealth features, and potent armament, will provide Taiwan with a crucial asymmetric advantage in maritime defense. The development of this submarine also comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait, as China's military expansion in the region continues to grow. The Narwhal will serve as a strategic asset in Taiwan's deterrence efforts, allowing it to secure its territorial waters and assert control over vital sea lanes.

The completion of the rolling test and quasi-submersible test is an important step forward in Taiwan's efforts to enhance its military capabilities. As the Narwhal moves through the remaining phases of testing, the eyes of defense analysts worldwide will be on this project, which is not only a technical achievement but also a symbol of Taiwan’s resilience and determination to defend its sovereignty.

In the coming months, as Narwhal enters the Sea Acceptance Test phase, its performance in real-world operational conditions will be closely monitored. Successful completion of these final trials will see the Narwhal join Taiwan's naval fleet, significantly enhancing the island’s ability to defend itself in an increasingly volatile regional security environment.

The Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS) program represents a major milestone for Taiwan, one that demonstrates the island's growing military and technological independence. With the Narwhal submarine leading the charge, Taiwan is setting a clear precedent for self-reliance in defense technology, ensuring that its armed forces remain capable of defending the nation against any threat.