Taiwan's first indigenous submarine "Narwhal" completes maiden sea trial

Taiwan has completed the first sea trial of its domestically developed submarine, marking a key milestone in its efforts to bolster naval deterrence amid rising tensions with China. The submarine, named Narwhal, is the first of a planned fleet of eight and is being built by state-backed CSBC Corporation in collaboration with international partners including the United States and the United Kingdom.

The sea trial, carried out off the coast of Kaohsiung in southern Taiwan, tested critical systems such as propulsion, ventilation, and radar. CSBC announced that further underwater trials will follow, gradually increasing the operating depth to validate full operational capability.

Initially scheduled for delivery in 2024, the Narwhal has faced delays but is expected to be deployed by 2027. It will be equipped with a combat system provided by Lockheed Martin and armed with U.S.-made Mark 48 torpedoes. The program’s estimated cost is T$49.36 billion (approximately $1.67 billion).

Taiwan currently operates two aging submarines acquired from the Netherlands in the 1980s. The indigenous submarine initiative is central to Taiwan’s asymmetric defense strategy, which emphasizes mobility and advanced technology—including drones and mobile missile platforms—to counter China’s overwhelming military advantage.

Taiwan’s military modernization push comes as Beijing continues near-daily military drills aimed at pressuring the island, which it claims as part of its territory. Despite diplomatic isolation, Taiwan has secured key technological cooperation from Western partners in this strategic program.