Anticipating A Confrontation With China, Taiwan Launches Double Rocket-Launched Ship

JAKARTA - Taiwan launched a new coast guard vessel to counter China's gray zone war tactics on Thursday, April 29. This ship will strengthen Taiwan's marine fleet.

The civilian-run coast guard, which will operate as a branch of Taiwan's navy during wartime, has frequently engaged in confrontations with Chinese fishing and sand-dredging vessels that Taiwan says are operating illegally in its waters.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen who was present at the launch of the ship named Chiayi said that the word 'Taiwan' in English will be gradually printed on all coast guard vessels.

"This shows our determination to defend the blue territory of the Republic of China", said Tsai using the official name of Taiwan, as reported by Reuters, Friday, April 30.

Meanwhile, Taiwan Coast Guard Director Hsieh Ching-chin said Chiayi would be sent on patrol to the west coast of Taiwan facing China.

"As well as Taiwan-controlled islands in the disputed South China Sea. We will defend our sovereignty and fishing rights", he stressed.

Built at a cost of up to USD 100.52 million, the 4.00 tonne Chiayi is the largest coast guard ship. The ship is equipped with a dual rocket launcher system and a machine gun for defense.

In addition, Chiayi also has three high-pressure water cannons, which the coast guard uses against Chinese fishing boats and dredgers operating illegally in Taiwanese waters.

In a report to Parliament this week, Taiwan's Maritime Affairs Council, which oversees the coast guard, said China was aggressively expanding its maritime militias, seeking to create gray zone conflict in the region.

"As long as they dare to cross the border, we will catch them", said Hsieh, referring to Chinese militias disguised as fishing vessels.

The Chiayi ship is part of the Taiwan Government's plan to counter the Chinese threat, by building 141 new coast guard ships by the end of 2027.