Taiwan is looking to bolster its defenses amid escalating military threats from China. The nation is set to construct 10 light frigates for anti-submarine as well as air defense missions between 2028 and 2040, according to a report from USNI News.

The 2,500-ton warships have been slated as a top priority, as Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) recently noted that the anti-air and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) projects will account for $7.8 billion of the $9.9 billion in funds for major shipbuilding projects.

Separately, Taipei will also procure 10 Lockheed Martin C-130J tactical transport aircraft as it seeks to secure its surrounding skies and seas.

Taiwan’s new 2,500-ton warships

Under the new procurement, five frigates will be built for anti-aircraft missions, and five will be constructed for anti-submarine missions. Two warships were already built for each configuration in 2023 and 2024. 

The light frigates are based on the Gibbs & Cox international frigate design, though they will be modified based on specific requirements. According to Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense, the air defense variant will be 96 meters (315 feet) long, while the ASW variant will be 116 meters (381 feet) long.

Besides the light frigates, Taiwan’s Republic of China Navy (ROCN) is also looking to procure a submarine rescue ship, a fast combat support ship, two rescue vessels, and a 10,600-ton amphibious assault vessel.

As the USNI News piece explained, Taiwan is currently retiring its Cold War-era Knox-class frigates. However, due to rising tensions, it is considering upgrading its naval capacity to defend against a potential Chinese invasion. 

Taiwan’s navy is overly reliant on aging American and French designs, including Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates, La Fayette-class frigates, and Kidd-class destroyers. Its vessels are also constantly in demand due to Chinese warships encroaching on Taipei’s maritime zones.

The nation has traditionally had more of an advantage in the air, and it is also looking to bolster its air support. According to a Flight Global report, Taiwan aims to procure 10 Lockheed Martin C-130J tactical transport aircraft, rather than undergoing a costly C-130H modernisation program.

China escalates Taiwan tensions

In December, China escalated tensions to new levels with a military display in the waters off Taiwan. As Reuters reported at the time, China fired rockets into the waters in an aggressive military demonstration of its new assault ships.

During these drills, China’s vessels rehearsed a blockade, and they performed 10 hours of live-fire exercises. At the same time, Chinese state media reportedly released images emphasizing Beijing’s technological and military superiority, while highlighting its ability to take Taiwan by force if necessary.

The drills, called “Justice Mission 2025”, began 11 days after the US announced a record $11.1 billion arms package deal with Taiwan.