Taiwan Navy boosts defensive firepower of its warships

The Taiwan navy has installed 13 Phalanx Block 1B close-in weapons systems on its warships, increasing their defensive firepower, a defense official said, Report informs referring to Taipei Times.

The systems cost the navy NT$10.16 billion (US$314.67 million), while eight additional Block 1A systems are being upgraded in the US and are expected to be delivered next year, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The Phalanx system used by Taiwan to defend its warships and key radar installations is a radar-cued gun system capable of firing 4,500 rounds a minute at targets as far away as 1.5km, the official said.

With their superior range of engagement, rate of fire and a forward-looking infrared sensor, the Block 1B variant of the Phalanx system would boost navy ships’ defensive firepower against missiles, aircraft and small boats, he said.

The navy uses Phalanx systems to arm Keelung-class destroyers, Tuo Chiang-class frigates and Kang Ding-class frigates, among other warships that make up its fleet of principal surface combatants, he said.

The Yushan-class landing platform docks and the next-generation light frigates under construction would also be equipped with Phalanx systems, the official said.