Taiwan authorities are building large coast guard ships to counter China's maritime police vessels.
According to reports from Taiwanese media, the 1,000-ton patrol ship "Hualien" was handed over on August 8 at the Kaohsiung Shipyard of Taiwan International Shipbuilding in North Kaohsiung City.
Xiao Meiqin attended the ceremony and stated that the construction of the "frontline" at sea is "not just a promise, but an actual action," and encouraged relevant parties to ensure that the future patrol ship construction plan proceeds on schedule in terms of time, quality, and budget.
The Hualien is the fourth 1,000-ton patrol ship built by the Taiwan authorities. According to Taiwan International Shipbuilding, the ship is about 98.5 meters long, 13.2 meters wide, and has a full-load displacement of more than 2,100 tons. It has higher wave resistance compared to conventional 1,000-ton patrol ships and can safely take off and land helicopters even at wind speeds of 17-21 knots. It is equipped with the remotely controlled unmanned gun mount "Zhenhai Rocket" system developed by the affiliated research institute of the Taiwan authorities.
Xiao mentioned that the authorities have been paying attention to the development plan for patrol boats in recent years and explained that she will continue to advance the shipbuilding plan. She demonstrated her determination to continuously enhance the capabilities of the fleet and strengthen the maritime defense line.
According to Guan Biling, head of the Taiwan Oceanic Commission, the ship was named "Hualien" because after the earthquake on the east coast of Hualien in April last year, the earthquake severely damaged the eastern part of Hualien. It is said that the courage and resilience shown by the people of Hualien after the disaster embody the spirit of maritime defense.
On this day, the naming and launching ceremony of the fifth 1,000-ton patrol ship was also held, and it was named "Penghu."
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842701597245452/
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