Taiwan Unveils Stealth Vessel Designed to Counter Chinese Naval Power

Taiwan’s Coast Guard has officially launched the final vessel of its new class of high-tech patrol boats, amidst escalating tensions with China in the Taiwan Strait. The Anping-class catamarans are designed to counter Chinese naval power.

The latest addition, named “Donggang”, is a CG615-class catamaran and was unveiled by Kuan Bi-ling, Minister of the Council of Marine Affairs, during a ceremony in Kaohsiung on Friday. This marks the completion of the 12-vessel Anping-class patrol boat project.

The Anping-class catamarans are based on Taiwan’s Tuo Chiang-class fast attack missile boats and are designed for agility in coastal waters, enabling them to confront larger warships. Unlike conventional coast guard vessels, these ships feature space at the rear for anti-ship missiles, providing a reserve combat capability in case of conflict.

Minister Kuan stated that the role of the Coast Guard is evolving beyond traditional law enforcement due to the changing security landscape around the Taiwan Strait. She emphasized the need for increased preparedness and described the Anping-class as a response to these new requirements.

The vessels are intended to be integrated into Taiwan’s defence system during wartime, becoming an integral part of its maritime defensive line. China views Taiwan as a renegade province, a claim rejected by Taipei. Tensions have heightened following President Xi Jinping’s warning to US President Donald Trump that mishandling the Taiwan issue could lead to dangerous consequences for bilateral relations.

The Taiwanese Coast Guard has been at the forefront of responding to China’s “grey zone” tactics, including deployments of warships and fighter jets around Taiwan, which are seen as attempts to test the island’s defences without triggering open conflict. During routine Chinese military exercises near Taiwan, coast guard vessels have also joined naval forces in monitoring and warning away Chinese ships.