TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s first domestically built submarine, the Narwhal, resumed sea trials Wednesday as it moves closer to delivery to the Navy.
Military analyst Chi Tung-yun (紀東昀) said Wednesday’s mission marked the submarine’s 19th sea trial and 13th underwater test, per CNA. He added that further details about the trials remain highly confidential.
Chi noted that CSBC Chair Chen Cheng-hung (陳政宏) previously said the submarine would soon begin endurance testing. He said the vessel is likely to undergo multiple endurance tests over the coming days.
According to Chi, the Narwhal has entered the latter stages of its sea trial program, with functional testing nearing completion. Upcoming evaluations are expected to include deeper dives and additional endurance testing.
Endurance tests are designed to assess the stability and power consumption of the submarine’s electrical systems, as well as the reliability of onboard equipment during extended operations, Chi said. Delivery of the submarine will depend on whether it meets the Navy’s performance requirements, though Chi said the vessel appears to remain on track for delivery later this year.
Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) told lawmakers on July 20 that the Narwhal is undergoing underwater testing, with safety and quality remaining the top priorities. The submarine will next proceed to deep-water diving trials, per Liberty Times.
Koo said no delivery deadline has been set, although local media have speculated the Navy could receive the submarine in late August or early September.
