Taiwan is undertaking a significant initiative to bolster its naval air defense capabilities by planning the production of up to 1,376 Hai Chien II missiles. These missiles, a naval adaptation of the Tien Chien II air-to-air missile, recently demonstrated their effectiveness in live-fire tests conducted off the southern coast of Taiwan. This move is part of a broader effort to update and standardize the missile systems across Taiwan’s surface fleet, ensuring the navy is well-equipped to counter modern aerial threats.
Defense authorities have highlighted that the Hai Chien II missiles will replace outdated air defense systems currently in use on naval vessels, which are deemed insufficient against contemporary aircraft and evolving threats. The navy’s strategic projections indicate a requirement for at least 688 of these missiles to fully outfit both current and future naval assets, including the Kang Ding-class frigates, next-generation light frigates, Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, and the Yushan-class amphibious landing platform dock.
In line with standard military logistics practices, Taiwan’s armed forces aim to maintain missile stockpiles that are 1.5 to 2 times the quantity needed for operational launch systems. This approach ensures an adequate reserve for sustained combat scenarios, thereby justifying the elevated production target for the Hai Chien II missiles. The integration of these missiles into ship-based vertical launch systems will provide enhanced range and comprehensive 360-degree air defense coverage for naval vessels.
Efforts to upgrade existing naval assets include the installation of new launch systems on Kang Ding-class frigates, enabling them to carry multiple Hai Chien II missiles. Additionally, Taiwan is incorporating these missiles into the design of future warships as a fundamental component of their air defense strategy. Through these initiatives, Taiwan seeks to significantly improve its fleet’s capability to defend against aircraft, drones, and missile threats.
This modernization push aligns with Taiwan’s wider strategy to reinforce its maritime defense in response to increasing military activities and security challenges in the region. By advancing its naval defenses, Taiwan aims to ensure a robust and resilient posture amid evolving regional dynamics.