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Taiwan’s Ning Yang Frigate Refurbished for Enhanced Anti-Submarine Warfare.


According to information published by CNA on January 30, 2025, the Ning Yang frigate, a Chi Yang-class warship in the Republic of China (ROC) Navy, has successfully completed an extensive overhaul at the Suao Naval Logistics Support Command, ensuring its continued operational effectiveness.
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The Knox-class frigate USS Aylwin before being part of the Taiwanese Navy. (Picture source: Wikipedia)


This refurbishment involved a comprehensive examination of critical systems, including hull integrity, propulsion, weapons, and electronic warfare capabilities, to extend the vessel’s service life and maintain combat readiness in Taiwan’s evolving security environment.

Originally a Knox-class frigate transferred from the United States, the Ning Yang has been modernized to align with Taiwan’s defense requirements. Designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), the ship is equipped with an SQS-26 sonar system and a towed array sonar, providing long-range submarine detection capabilities. The vessel’s armament includes a Mk 16 8-cell missile launcher capable of deploying RGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles and RUR-5 ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) torpedoes, allowing it to engage both surface and underwater threats. Additionally, the 127mm Mk 42 naval gun provides fire support against surface targets, while the Phalanx CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) offers last-line defense against incoming missiles and aircraft.

The overhaul process focused on ensuring the reliability of these weapon systems through recalibration and software updates, particularly for the ship’s fire control and combat management systems. Engineers and technicians conducted extensive diagnostics on the Mk 92 fire control system to enhance targeting accuracy and response time in combat situations. Power distribution systems, including the ship’s gas turbine and diesel generators, underwent thorough inspections to optimize efficiency and ensure sustained operational endurance. Additionally, the propulsion system, consisting of a single-shaft steam turbine, was tested for reliability, with maintenance teams addressing potential vulnerabilities in high-stress environments.

A crucial aspect of the Ning Yang’s operational role is its integration with naval aviation assets. The frigate is designed to accommodate an S-70C(M) Seahawk helicopter, extending its surveillance and ASW capabilities beyond the range of onboard sonar systems. During the overhaul, maintenance teams inspected the flight deck, hangar, and aviation fuel storage systems to ensure compatibility with future deployments. The ship’s data-link systems, which allow real-time communication between surface vessels, submarines, and air assets, were also upgraded to enhance coordination with Taiwan’s broader naval fleet.

The Chi Yang-class frigates, despite their age, remain a vital component of Taiwan’s maritime defense strategy, complementing newer indigenous platforms such as the Tuo Chiang-class stealth corvettes and Yushan-class amphibious transport docks. The ROC Navy’s decision to invest in the refurbishment of these vessels reflects Taiwan’s strategy of maximizing existing assets while gradually integrating next-generation warships. Given Taiwan’s limited access to foreign-built warships due to geopolitical constraints, sustaining older platforms through modernization is a cost-effective approach to maintaining naval deterrence.

As regional tensions continue to shape Taiwan’s defense priorities, the upgraded Ning Yang frigate reinforces the ROC Navy’s ability to conduct ASW operations, surface warfare, and fleet escort missions. With its combat systems restored and operational capabilities enhanced, the vessel is now fully mission-ready, ensuring its role in safeguarding Taiwan’s maritime security against potential threats.


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