TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — CSBC Corp. underscored the strategic value of submarines in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Submarines possess powerful torpedo strike potential and can be resistant to underwater electromagnetic pulse threats, CSBC said, enabling them to serve as lethal ambush weapons. During anti-blockade and anti-landing operations, they can contain and deter entire enemy fleets, including aircraft carrier strike groups, from entering Taiwan’s eastern waters, it said.
The corporation said that its domestically developed Narwhal submarine has entered the latter phase of sea trials and is expected to be delivered in the second half of this year. Remaining tests and modifications will focus on checking performance levels and system stability, it said.
CSBC urged opposition parties not to block funds for its submarine program. It warned that any large-scale budget freezes or cuts would delay construction timelines. It could also lead partner companies and foreign suppliers of restricted equipment to lose confidence in the project and become unwilling to continue cooperation.
Contracts, pricing, and schedules would also be affected, CSBC said, adding that resuming the program later would require more time and money.
CSBC said that unmanned vehicles were also strategically important for Taiwan’s defense. Their low cost and ability to overwhelm enemy ships through saturation attacks make them a valuable asset, it said. The corporation unveiled its Endeavor Manta unmanned surface vehicle last March.
CSBC emphasized that only a strong national defense can ensure the survival of Taiwan’s free society and maritime lifelines.
