Taiwan is advancing its naval air defense capabilities with plans to produce between 1,200 and 1,376 Hai Chien II (Sea Sword II) missiles. This strategic move aims to modernize its navy and unify missile systems across its fleet. The initiative follows successful live-fire tests of the Hai Chien II, a naval adaptation of the Tien Chien II air-to-air missile, conducted off southern Taiwan.
Defense officials highlight that this new missile system will replace outdated air defense weapons on naval vessels, which are deemed insufficient against modern aircraft and evolving aerial threats. Military planning estimates indicate that the navy needs 688 Hai Chien II missiles to outfit both current and future warships. This includes Kang Ding-class frigates, next-generation light frigates, Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, and Yushan-class amphibious landing platform docks.
To ensure adequate reserves for sustained combat operations, military logistics assessments suggest maintaining stockpiles equivalent to 1.5 to 2 times the number of missiles required for operational launch systems. This precautionary measure partly accounts for the higher production target. The Hai Chien II missile is designed for integration with ship-based vertical launch systems, which will provide vessels with enhanced range and comprehensive 360-degree air defense coverage.
As part of this modernization effort, Taiwan is also upgrading its Kang Ding-class frigates with new launch systems that can accommodate multiple Hai Chien II missiles. Additionally, future warship designs are being developed with the missile as a central element of their air defense framework. This initiative underscores Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to bolster maritime defense capabilities amid escalating military activities and security challenges in the region.