Light frigates set to replace Taiwan’s ageing Knox class
New light frigates for the ROC Navy will feature a 2,500t full-load displacement, with both anti-submarine and anti-air variants. (Photo: Charles Au)
Taiwan is pursuing an indigenous construction programme of 12 light frigates to replace six Chi Yang-/Knox-class frigates.
A contract for two new warships was recently awarded to Taiwanese shipyard Jong Shyn Shipbuilding Company (JSSC) in Kaohsiung. Two light frigates will be delivered to the Republic of China Navy (ROCN) before the end of October 2026.
Overall, the project will eventually build 12 warships. They are to replace Vietnam War-era Knox-class frigates that have served the ROCN for more than three decades, not to mention their time in the USN before that.
Instead of classifying the ships as corvettes or OPVs, the ROCN created a new classification of light frigate. These have a 2,000t standard displacement, with
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser]()
RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser
The new Barracuda version has been engineered to perform enhanced subsea and seabed warfare missions.
-
![US Coast Guard announces measures to further implement Force Design 2028 strategy]()
US Coast Guard announces measures to further implement Force Design 2028 strategy
The US Coast Guard (USCG) created new units, including five Programme Executive Offices (PEOs), to facilitate and speed up the procurement of new capabilities.
-
![Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear]()
Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear
The US Navy does not have a precise date for the award of the procurement contract for the third Arleigh Burke-class destroyer despite having the funds to advance with the programme in FY2025.
