Taiwan conducted submarine tests safely, despite concerns about the prototype operating without an anchor, officials confirmed. Defense Minister Wellington Koo stressed that protecting the crew remained the highest priority during sea trials.
The indigenous submarine Narwhal, also called Hai Kun, completed floating navigation tests last Thursday and Friday. Koo told the legislature that the vessel did not need an anchor for these specific exercises. He also denied that the trials were rushed due to delivery pressures.
Navy Chief of Staff Chiu Chun-jung said engineers removed the anchor temporarily to replace certain components. Chiu confirmed that the team will reinstall the anchor around mid-December for upcoming trials.
Kaohsiung-based CSBC Corp., the submarine builder, faces daily fines of NT$190,000 (around US$6,043) for missing the original November delivery deadline. CSBC emphasized that project staff and foreign consultants review each test carefully. The company added that escort vessels accompany every trial to guarantee crew safety.
The Narwhal will next undergo shallow-depth tests to verify basic systems. Later, crews will conduct progressively deeper trials to measure performance under increasing pressure. Officials said these steps will prove the vessel’s combat readiness.
Originally, the trials were scheduled to begin in April and finish by September 30. Delays pushed them into late November, raising public questions about safety and scheduling. Koo reiterated that thorough testing and crew protection never suffered despite the delays.
Analysts highlight that Taiwan’s development of indigenous defense capabilities remains vital amid regional security tensions. The Narwhal program strengthens naval deterrence and reduces reliance on foreign military equipment.
Officials plan to complete anchor installation and continue testing throughout December. They will maintain strict safety measures and gradually increase operational complexity to meet combat standards.
Taiwan submarine tests demonstrate the country’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its naval fleet. Experts say these exercises provide essential experience for indigenous submarine development and improve overall defense preparedness.
