Taiwan Launches First Domestically-Built Submarine... China Strongly Opposes Saying "Inviting Doom"

Taiwan has unveiled its first domestically produced defensive submarine. In response, China strongly opposed the move, calling it "a path to self-destruction," escalating military tensions surrounding the Taiwan Strait.

On the 28th, according to Taiwanese media and major foreign news outlets, Taiwan revealed the prototype of its domestically produced defensive submarine (IDS) and held a launching ceremony. The ceremony, presided over by Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, took place at the Taiwan International Shipbuilding Corporation (CSBC) shipyard in Kaohsiung.

The prototype IDS submarine was named "Haikun (海鯤)." Haikun measures 80 meters in length, with a displacement of 2,500 to 3,000 tons, and is equipped with combat systems and torpedoes manufactured by the American company Lockheed Martin.

After passing tests at Kaohsiung port, including harbor and sea trials, Haikun is scheduled to be delivered to the navy before the end of next year. If the tests are successful, Taiwan plans to begin producing additional submarines, aiming to deploy two submarines in active service by 2027.

President Tsai Ing-wen emphasized, "This is a concrete realization of our determination to protect Taiwan," adding, "Today's launching ceremony will be recorded in history."

Taiwan's first domestically produced submarine Hai Kun
Photo by Yonhap News

In response, China strongly condemned the act as a disruption to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, likened Taiwan's submarine launch to "Tangbi Dangche (螳臂當車; a mantis trying to stop a chariot with its arms)" during a regular briefing. He warned Taiwan that it would "ultimately bring about its own destruction."

He added, "No matter what weapons the Democratic Progressive Party authorities manufacture or import, they cannot stop the trend of national reunification," and stated, "The People's Liberation Army's firm determination, will, and strong capability to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity cannot be shaken."