Retired admiral Huang Shu-kuang resigned as adviser to Taiwan’s National Security Council for family reasons. Huang guided the Indigenous Defense Submarine program through its crucial early stages.
Huang oversaw the program since 2019, leading design, procurement negotiations, and securing restricted components. Consequently, his leadership enabled the launch of Hai Kun, Taiwan’s first domestically produced submarine, in September 2023. President William Lai praised Huang for decades of service and his critical role in strengthening national defense self-reliance.
Huang joined the National Security Council in 2021 and served as chief of general staff from January 2020 to January 2021. Naval officials noted he stepped down as program convener in April 2024. Admiral Tang Hua assumed operational management afterward. Experts emphasize Huang’s guidance was essential during the program’s most challenging initial phase.
Despite Huang’s resignation, CSBC Corp confirmed ongoing commitment to Hai Kun’s sea trials and delivery schedule. The submarine will undergo its fourth sea acceptance test, including surface navigation, submerged evaluations, and torpedo launch trials. CSBC chairman Chen Cheng-hung stressed that the company will meet the November delivery deadline.
A source familiar with the project explained Huang remained as adviser for over a year at President Lai’s request. This ensured smooth program continuity. Officials stated his departure would not affect current trials, since operational control rests with the Navy and CSBC teams.
Looking forward, the Indigenous Defense Submarine program will continue step-by-step testing. Shallow-water trials will precede deep-sea tests and combat readiness evaluations. Analysts highlight the program as a key milestone for Taiwan’s domestic defense capabilities.
Furthermore, the leadership transition demonstrates Taiwan’s ability to maintain continuity in strategic defense projects. While Huang’s strategic input was crucial early on, the program now operates in a stable phase.
Overall, Huang’s resignation reflects a natural advisory shift while preserving momentum. Continued collaboration between the Navy and CSBC ensures Hai Kun meets project objectives and supports national defense priorities.
