KAOHSIUNG (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) on Thursday (Jan. 9) hosted a media event at the Zuoying Navy Base (海軍左營基地) to showcase the Republic of China military's enhanced combat readiness for the upcoming Lunar New Year. The event invited local and international media to witness the Navy's operational preparedness.
During the event, the Hsiung Feng II anti-ship missile launchers (雄二反艦飛彈發射車) executed a mobile deployment. The Tuo Chiang-class corvettes (沱江級巡邏艦) and Kuang Hua VI-class missile boats (光華六號飛彈快艇) simulated Hsiung Feng III missile launches, demonstrating their swift response capabilities.
The Navy also simulated a threat in the southwestern waters, utilizing surveillance radar and unmanned vehicles to track targets and directing vessels to tactical positions at 30 knots for attack drills. The Navy Command (海軍司令部) noted that in response to increased military intimidation from China, the Navy will continue refining its training and advancing the development of new-generation forces to bolster defense resilience.
The Navy emphasized its capability, determination, and confidence in safeguarding maritime territories, ensuring the security of the Taiwan Strait and peace of mind for citizens during the holiday season. The Navy also unveiled a new diving training center, which has been operational since late November.
Speaking to the media, Chen Chih-hsin (陳志信), head of the Underwater Operation Unit (UOU, 海軍水下作業大隊), stated that the 30-meter-long, 15-meter-wide, and 13-meter-deep pool matches the depth of the U.S. Navy's diving and salvage training facility, fulfilling all training requirements.