President William Lai highlighted Taiwan military readiness yesterday while inspecting the navy’s Tsoying destroyer. The visit came hours after the five-day Hai Chiang live-fire exercises near Taiwan concluded.
Lai toured the ship with Minister of National Defense Wellington Koo, Navy Commander Admiral Tang Hua, Rear Admiral Wei Chien-chung of Surface Combatant Group 62.1, and other senior officials. They reviewed the drills and inspected the destroyer’s combat information center, helicopter hangar, foredeck, and air defense systems.
The Hai Chiang exercises strengthened Taiwan military readiness by simulating potential conflict with China. They tested joint interception, damage control, formation maneuvers, aerial replenishment, and live-fire missions. The Ministry of National Defense said these drills improved operational capabilities and readiness for wartime conditions.
Video footage released by the Presidential Office showed warships deploying Sikorsky S-70C anti-submarine helicopters, Albatross surveillance drones, naval mines, 5-inch guns, 40mm cannons, and Chaparral missiles. These actions demonstrated the military’s focus on modern, integrated systems.
Lai praised naval personnel for their professionalism and skill. He said the Hai Chiang exercises are critical for countering a potential Chinese blockade and ensuring rapid recovery after combat damage. He also commended Surface Combatant Group 62.1 for defending Taiwan’s territorial waters and maritime security.
Furthermore, the president stressed the importance of enhancing asymmetric capabilities and innovative technologies. He encouraged the armed forces to deploy precision-guided weapons, uncrewed systems, and applied artificial intelligence. These steps directly improve Taiwan military readiness.
Lai also emphasized that the military must adopt new training, modern equipment, and emerging tactics. He added that reforms should occur across all command levels and require whole-of-society support.
Meanwhile, Minister Koo is scheduled to brief lawmakers on Taiwan’s first domestically built submarine, Hai Kun, on Monday and Thursday. The navy confirmed technical issues affecting its diesel-electric propulsion system and operational firmware. Consequently, the navy delayed key sea acceptance tests, including diving and torpedo trials. CSBC Corp may also postpone delivery.
Experts noted that Taiwan military readiness remains essential amid regional tensions. They said the Hai Chiang exercises demonstrate the military’s commitment to deterrence, technological integration, and operational superiority.
Going forward, the government plans to modernize the armed forces while closely monitoring ongoing defense projects. Strengthening Taiwan military readiness remains a top priority for national security and long-term defense strategy.
