US tests the newest QUICKSINK maritime weapon variant in the Norwegian Sea
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
Taiwan is seeking spare parts from the US for naval vessels. (Photo: Taiwan MND)
The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the US (TECRO) has requested spare parts and related equipment for surface vessels operated by the Republic of China Navy (ROCN).
A potential $120 FMS deal was approved by the State Department on 8 June.
TECRO has asked for unclassified spare and repair parts for ships and ship systems; logistical technical assistance; US Government and contractor representative technical and logistical support; and other related elements of logistical and programme support.
‘The equipment will be sourced from approved US Navy vendors and/or US Navy stock,’ the State Department announced, adding: ‘There is no prime contractor.’
The ROCN operates a number of ex-USN surface vessels that may require spare parts support. Examples include four Kee Lung-class (formerly Kidd-class) destroyers and six Chi Yang-class (formerly Knox-class) frigates.
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
With ongoing market research to find potential shipyards for building LCUs, NAVSEA intends to issue a request for proposals for the programme next year.
While the Australian government insists the investment is predominantly aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities, the upgrade also bodes well for the AUKUS pact which Australia’s defence minister said “is going well”.
The USCG exercised a $507 million contract option for the acquisition of 10 extra FRCs. This new order will raise the total number of Sentinel-class vessels procured by the service from 67 to 77.
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.