Taiwan is set to bolster its naval air defense capabilities with a plan to produce between 1,200 and 1,376 Hai Chien II missiles. This initiative follows the successful live-fire test of the Hai Chien II, a naval adaptation of the Tien Chien II air-to-air missile, conducted recently off the southern coast of Taiwan. The development aims to modernize the missile systems on its naval vessels, replacing outdated weapons that are inadequate against contemporary aircraft and evolving aerial threats.
Military planners have outlined the need for 688 Hai Chien II missiles to fully arm both current and future warships, including Kang Ding-class frigates, next-generation light frigates, Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, and Yushan-class amphibious landing platform docks. To ensure readiness for sustained combat operations, logistics assessments suggest maintaining stockpiles 1.5 to 2 times greater than the operational needs, which has driven the higher production targets.
The Hai Chien II missiles are designed to be integrated into ship-based vertical launch systems, providing enhanced range and 360-degree air defense coverage. This modernization is expected to significantly improve Taiwan’s naval fleet against threats from aircraft, drones, and missiles. In line with this effort, the Kang Ding-class frigates are undergoing upgrades to accommodate multiple Hai Chien II missiles, while future warship designs will incorporate the missile as a key component of their air defense strategy.
These advancements reflect Taiwan’s strategic push to strengthen its maritime defense capabilities amid rising military activity and security challenges in the region. By standardizing missile systems across its surface fleet and enhancing defensive measures, Taiwan aims to ensure robust protection against potential threats and maintain operational effectiveness in its naval forces.