Taiwan’s indigenous defense submarine prototype, the Hai Kun (海鯤), or Narwhal, today conducted its fifth submerged sea trial, drawing military enthusiasts to Kaohsiung Harbor.
The submarine sailed out to sea at about 8am, with fans spotted waving the Republic of China flag and holding banners to cheer for the submarine project.
Today marked the submarine’s 11th sea trial and its fifth submergence test.
Photo: CNA
The current dive may reach a depth of about 100m, Feng Chia University assistant professor Chi Tung-yun (紀東昀) said.
Future tests could include overnight operations, as the program is expected to soon enter endurance trials to confirm battery consumption under different depths and speeds, Chi added.
Recent tests have focused on calibration and optimization following the first four dive trials, he said, adding that sonar performance is particularly important.
As the submarine gradually increases its diving depth, engineers must confirm that the hull does not generate unexpected noise and that onboard systems operate smoothly, which requires repeated testing, he said.
Preparation time required before the submarine leaves port has been steadily decreasing, signaling that pre-mission checks are proceeding efficiently, he said.
CSBC Corp, Taiwan last month released the first video documenting the submerged sea trials of the submarine, showing underwater navigation and the launch of countermeasures.
The footage shows the vessel’s first dive, steering and control system tests, and the raising and lowering of its periscope and antenna masts.
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