‘Hai Kun’ sea trials to include deep diving tests

Taiwan’s domestically built submarine prototype *Hai Kun* departed from Kaohsiung yesterday for its latest sea trials, marking its 15th test and ninth submerged navigation exercise. The trials follow a postponed Friday session due to poor weather and include critical deep-diving and overnight evaluations, with completion potentially allowing delivery to the navy between May and September. Shipbuilder CSBC Corp has faced fines for missing its November 2023 deadline but aims to meet defense requirements despite testing delays. The *Hai Kun*’s upcoming tests focus on seaworthiness and deep-diving performance, with Minister of National Defense Wellington Koo emphasizing adherence to safety and quality protocols. Military expert Chi Tung-yun noted that minimizing environmental variables will improve data accuracy, ensuring the submarine meets operational standards. Taiwan’s submarine fleet currently consists of two upgraded Chien Lung-class vessels, *Hai Lung* and *Hai Hu*, originally built in the Netherlands in the 1980s. Both have undergone modernization, including advanced combat-management, sonar, and fire-control systems, alongside the integration of new torpedo capabilities. The *Hai Lung* has already completed upgrades and trials, while the *Hai Hu* is nearing finalization. The navy will soon receive 28 MK 48 Mod 6 Advanced Technology torpedoes from the US over the next two years, replacing older German-made SUT torpedoes. The MK 48 Mod 6, measuring 5.8 meters and weighing over 1.6 tonnes, offers superior speed (55 knots), range (38+ km), and guidance accuracy compared to current models. These upgrades align with the expected operational assessments for the Chien Lung-class submarines in 2025, bolstering Taiwan’s undersea defense capabilities.