Taiwan reinvigorates its asymmetrical approach to naval warfare
The ROCN took possession of the 3,250t Da Wu, the first of a new class of rescue and salvage vessels, on 23 October. (Photo: CSBC)
Taiwan faces an existential threat from China as People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and warships harass the island on a daily basis. The Republic of China Navy (ROCN) is confronting both grey-zone tactics and the threat of a Chinese blockade or full-blown invasion.
A ‘porcupine’ strategy, promulgated in Taiwan’s 2018 Overall Defense Concept policy, called for platforms and asymmetric capabilities to deter a Chinese invasion. This strategy, however, was not wholeheartedly pursued, and the concept disappeared from subsequent Ministry of National Defense (MND) documents.
The ROCN continued to field a traditionally structured navy, but there are renewed signs that the
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, DSTA chief Ng Chad-son outlines how the agency is reshaping defence tech development through deeper collaboration with industry partners, from AI-enhanced radar to smart naval munitions.
-
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.