Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan’s navy will receive six additional Min Jiang-class fast mine-layer boats before the end of next year. (Photo: Taiwan Presidential Office)
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
The revelation of a Chinese bridge-barge landing system for amphibious operations, designed for a Taiwan invasion has underscored the need for Taipei to deter any People’s Liberation Army (PLA) invasion. Sea mines and loitering munitions have, therefore, featured highly in Taiwanese thinking as it acts to boost its asymmetric defences.
Earlier this month, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) awarded a contract to Yilan-based Lungteh Shipbuilding for six fast mine-laying boats which will join four other Min Jiang-class mine-layers previously commissioned into the Republic of China Navy (ROCN) in 2020–21.
The steel-hulled boats measure 41m long and displace 347t.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![ST Engineering makes Euronaval debut with MRV European export campaign]()
ST Engineering makes Euronaval debut with MRV European export campaign
A six-ship home order, agreements with Saab, Naval Group and Babcock and spare yard capacity underpin the group’s first Euronaval bid for smaller European navies.
-
![Navies need cheaper ways to defeat drones, but can they sustain merchant protection?]()
Navies need cheaper ways to defeat drones, but can they sustain merchant protection?
New interceptors and launchers could help navies preserve missile stocks during prolonged escort operations. Yet lower engagement costs will only improve merchant protection if the weapons are available where ships need defending.
-
![Euronaval 2026: Red Cat’s Blue Ops follows USV demand from Asia to the Andes]()
Euronaval 2026: Red Cat’s Blue Ops follows USV demand from Asia to the Andes
With its B-26 USV in full-rate production, Blue Ops is seeking to turn overseas interest into orders through a combination of lower operating costs, UAV integration and local manufacturing.
