Republic of China Navy

The Republic of China Navy fleet includes Kee Lung-class destroyers, Cheng Kung-class frigates, and Kang Ding-class frigates. The surface force also maintains Chi Yang-class frigates for anti-submarine operations. Littoral capabilities are centered on Tuo Chiang-class guided-missile corvettes and Kuang Hua VI-class missile boats, supported by Chin Chiang-class patrol vessels. Submarine assets include the Hai Lung-class and the indigenous Hai Kun-class. Amphibious operations are conducted using the Yushan-class landing platform dock and Hsu Hai-class dock landing ships.

Domestic shipbuilding programs are currently focused on the Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS) project. The lead vessel of this class, Hai Kun, began sea trials in 2025 and continued them into 2026, including a first submerged trial in January 2026, ahead of commissioning. The production of Tuo Chiang-class corvettes continues at domestic yards, with additional hulls delivered in 2025 and 2026. A new program for light frigates is underway, consisting of separate anti-air warfare and anti-submarine warfare variants; the lead vessels in this series were launched in 2025. Modernization efforts for the Kang Ding-class frigates involve the integration of indigenous Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missiles and Tien Kung III surface-to-air missiles to replace older foreign systems.

The naval command structure is headed by the Navy Command Headquarters in Taipei. The fleet is organized into several operational components, including the 124th and 168th Fleets, which manage the primary surface combatants. The 131st Fleet oversees patrol craft and littoral operations, while the 151st Fleet is responsible for amphibious and transport vessels. Submarine operations are centralized under the 256th Submarine Squadron. Principal naval bases are located at Tsoying in Kaohsiung, which serves as the primary fleet headquarters, Suao in the northeast, Keelung in the north, and Makung in the Penghu Islands.

Operations are concentrated on the Taiwan Strait and the surrounding waters of the Western Pacific. Primary missions include patrolling the median line of the Taiwan Strait and monitoring the Bashi Channel. The navy conducts regular escort and resupply missions to offshore administrative centers, including Kinmen, Matsu, and the Penghu archipelago. Long-range logistics missions support outposts in the South China Sea, specifically Pratas Island and Taiping Island. Maritime surveillance units track foreign naval movements within the contiguous zone and the air defense identification zone. Cooperation with the Coast Guard Administration is maintained for fisheries protection and maritime law enforcement in disputed waters.