Richard Sanders
President William Lai has reiterated Taiwan’s dedication to supporting indigenous defense projects, emphasizing the importance of funding for domestic shipbuilding and aircraft initiatives. Speaking at a keel-laying ceremony in Kaohsiung for the first of six local cruisers, Lai noted that these efforts are vital to enhancing the nation’s self-defense capabilities.
The cruisers, commissioned by the Coast Guard Administration (CGA) following a initiative by former president Tsai Ing-wen in 2021 aimed at combating illegal fishing, represent an investment of NT$12.9 billion (approximately US$390 million). The plan includes the construction of six long-range vessels designed to patrol international waters, thereby expanding Taiwan’s maritime reach and reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting its territorial seas.
Lai highlighted that the vessel currently being built will feature a robust diesel-electric propulsion system, enabling it to circle Taiwan up to 30 times per mission, significantly enhancing operational range. Its rear deck is designed to accommodate various supplies, a coastal multipurpose boat, an attack boat, or even a drone, depending on the mission requirements.
The new cruiser will enhance the coast guard’s maritime patrol capabilities and can act as a supply ship for outlying islands or as a marine rescue vessel. Lai praised the dedication of coast guard personnel in defending Taiwan’s maritime borders against persistent harassment from the Chinese Communist Party through “gray zone” tactics, urging them to prioritize their safety while on duty.
Lai called upon the Ocean Affairs Council, CGA, and CSBC Taiwan—the company responsible for constructing the vessels—to maintain their schedule. He also urged lawmakers from all parties to support necessary budgets that will help protect Taiwan’s democratic way of life.
CSBC Taiwan chairman Huang Cheng-hung confirmed that construction of the first cruiser began last year, with plans for its launch in October. Following trials, the vessel is set to be delivered to the CGA by August 11 next year. The cruiser will measure 100 meters in length and is estimated to displace over 3,000 tonnes without equipment and up to 8,000 tonnes when fully outfitted. It will also be equipped with water cannons, high-pressure water guns, and the XTR-102 20mm remote weapon system developed by the Chungshan Institute of Science and Technology.
Designed for versatility, the vessel is capable of towing CGA’s 4,000-tonne Chiayi-class patrol boats and transporting modular cargo crates, significantly expanding its operational potential.
