The Republic of China Navy (ROCN) unveiled models of its next-generation light frigates at the TADTE 2025 exhibition, highlighting both Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) variants. The programme is designed to counter growing “gray-zone” pressure from Chinese vessels and aircraft and to strengthen Taiwan’s maritime surveillance and defence capabilities.
By Jarryd Sinovich
The light frigates are intended to conduct peacetime patrol, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, while supporting surface combat task forces during wartime with air defence, anti-submarine patrols and missile strikes. Equipped with advanced radar early-warning systems, the ships will help extend operational reach, defend sea lines of communication and respond to coastal threats.
The AAW variant will feature the domestically developed Hua Yang vertical launch system to fire Taiwan’s TC-2N surface-to-air missiles. Contractors involved in the programme offered limited detail at the exhibition. Lockheed Martin displayed the CMS-330 combat management system, Gibbs & Cox presented its design input, while builder Jong Shyn Shipbuilding Company withheld comment on progress, stressing that official Navy statements should guide expectations.
