Taiwan has completed its maiden sea test for its first submarine developed domestically on Tuesday. This is a major milestone in a project that aims to strengthen deterrence and protect vital sea routes in case of war.

Taiwan, which China claims to be its own territory has made its indigenous submarine programme an important part of its ambitious project to modernise their armed forces, as Beijing holds military exercises almost every day to assert its sovereignty.

The sub programme is a result of the expertise and technology provided by several countries including Britain and the United States. This is a major breakthrough for Taiwan, which has been diplomatically isolated and whose government does not accept Beijing's territorial claims.

Taiwan's CSBC Corp., which is leading the construction of eight submersibles that are eventually planned, announced in a press release that the first vessel, named Narwhal had completed its initial sea test, proving propulsion, ventilation, and radar systems.

The statement showed pictures of the sub sailing above the water near the southern Taiwanese Port of Kaohsiung.

The company said that underwater tests will be conducted, increasing the depth of the water gradually.

Narwhal was due to join two other submarines that were purchased in the Netherlands back in the 1980s. However, the program has been delayed.

Taiwan hopes to deploy two of these submarines developed domestically by 2027 and may equip future models with missiles.

The first submarine will cost T$49.36billion ($1.67billion) and use a Lockheed Martin Corp combat system. It will also carry heavyweight Mark 48 torpedoes made in the United States.

Taiwan's military is dwarfed by China, who has ballistic missile subs and two operational aircraft carriers. They are also developing stealth fighters.

Taiwan has modernised its military in order to be able fight "asymmetric war" using mobile and agile system like submarines, trucks mounted missiles and drones. This is to combat its larger adversary China. ($1 = 29.5280 Taiwan dollars)

(source: Reuters)