Story perspectives

Taiwan's Hai Kun Submarine Testing Delays Amid Rising Tensions

1/30/2026

Center

Taiwan Submarine Testing

Taiwan's indigenous submarine Hai Kun conducted its sixth sea acceptance test on January 26, 2026.
The delivery timeline has slipped due to ongoing preparation for submerged operations, amid rising public interest and scrutiny.
CSBC Corp, the shipbuilder, has not confirmed when testing will conclude.
Analysts predict the testing program may extend into mid-2026.
Hai Kun symbolizes Taiwan's shipbuilding ambitions and its strategic deterrence against regional threats.

Right

Taiwan Submarine Trials

Taiwan conducted its first underwater sea trial of the domestically developed submarine Narwhal on January 29, 2026.
The program aims to produce eight vessels and has received technological support from the United States and Britain.
Taiwan plans to deploy at least two submarines by 2027, with the Narwhal equipped with US-made torpedoes.
The initiative aims to modernize Taiwan's armed forces for asymmetric warfare amid ongoing Chinese drills.

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Taiwan Submarine Testing

Taiwan's indigenous submarine Hai Kun conducted its sixth sea acceptance test on January 26, 2026.
The delivery timeline has slipped due to ongoing preparation for submerged operations, amid rising public interest and scrutiny.
CSBC Corp, the shipbuilder, has not confirmed when testing will conclude.
Analysts predict the testing program may extend into mid-2026.
Hai Kun symbolizes Taiwan's shipbuilding ambitions and its strategic deterrence against regional threats.

1 / 2