Taiwan Completes Maiden Sea Trial for Indigenous Submarine Narwhal

Taiwan's first domestically developed submarine, the Narwhal (Hai Kun), has successfully completed its maiden sea trial, marking a significant milestone in the nation's efforts to modernize its defenses amid increasing military pressure from China. The Narwhal, built by CSBC Corp and equipped with U.S.-made systems, is part of a broader project to build a fleet of indigenous submarines, with the goal of deploying at least two by 2027. Recent harbor acceptance tests were completed at the Port of Kaohsiung, after which the vessel began sea acceptance tests under tight security, with various Navy escort vessels deployed. The submarine was observed operating under its own power for the first time, indicating substantial progress in its engineering and operational capabilities. Despite previous delays, officials maintain that the delivery deadline to the Navy remains November, and experts believe the program is on track, though budget constraints remain until successful completion of the trials. This development is seen as a breakthrough for Taiwan, which has relied on foreign expertise due to its diplomatic isolation, and is viewed as a key step in bolstering deterrence against the Chinese navy.