The navy has submitted a request for NT$31.6 billion (US$1.03 billion) to build 50-tonne fast-attack missile boats, as part of the national defense budget, which was submitted for legislative review yesterday.
A high-ranking defense official, who asked not to be identified, said the boats are part of an effort to strengthen Taiwan’s asymmetric warfare capabilities in the face of a growing military imbalance in the Taiwan Strait.
The nation cannot rely on conventional warfare as a solution, and must adjust its approach, the official said.
As such, it is important to focus on quality, efficiency and precision over quantity, with the acquisition and construction of fast-attack missile boats, mobile air defense systems and anti-armor weaponry a priority, the official said.
Assault boats are small, fast, agile and can be armed with anti-ship missiles, guns or torpedoes, the official said.
The planned attack boats would each be equipped with two Hsiung Feng II anti-ship missiles, the official said.
The navy is also seeking NT$917.77 million to construct four minelayers to deter enemy ships, the official added.
Taiwan’s Liu Ming-i, right, who also goes by the name Ray Liu, poses with a Chinese Taipei flag after winning the gold medal in the men’s physique 170cm competition at the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation Asian Championship in Ajman, United Arab Emirates, yesterday.
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