According to information published by Focus Taiwan on July 12, 2023, in preparation for the acquisition of Taiwan's first home-built submarine, the country's Navy has recently assembled a specialized team within the 256th Submarine Squadron.
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Model of the future Taiwanese indigenous submarine. (Picture source: Taiwanese Navy)
The submarines are anticipated to be approximately 2,500 tons and 70 meters in length. Their design is influenced by Dutch submarines that Taiwan currently operates, leading to distinct similarities with the Dutch Zwaardvis and Walrus class submarines.
Taiwan's CSBC Corporation has been contracted to build eight submarines initially, with a future plan of expanding the fleet to ten. The contract is worth US$3.3 billion, with the total procurement cost estimated to be around US$10 billion.
One of the key features of these submarines is the incorporation of the AN/BYG-1 submarine combat management system. This advanced technology, used in US Navy nuclear submarines, would significantly enhance the vessels' operational capability.
Furthermore, the submarines will be armed with MK-48 Mod 6 Advanced Technology heavyweight torpedoes and UGM-84L sub-launched Harpoon Block II missiles.
The propulsion system of the submarines is based on a diesel/electric combination, utilizing Lithium Ion battery technology, ensuring a balance between power and operational efficiency.
