Taiwan Navy Enhances Warships with Upgraded Phalanx Close-In Weapons Amid Growing Threats from China

The Taiwanese Navy is taking decisive steps to upgrade its maritime defense by installing the latest variant of the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) on its primary surface combatants. This move is seen as a crucial enhancement in the face of growing tensions with China, which has increased its naval activities around the island.

Upgrading Naval Defense

Among the warships receiving the upgraded Phalanx Block 1B system are Taiwan’s Keelung-class destroyers, Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, and Kang Ding-class frigates. The Block 1B variant offers a substantial improvement in defensive capability, featuring a stabilized electro-optic sensor that enables better engagement against asymmetric threats like high-speed boats, drones, and low-flying aircraft. The system is capable of firing up to 4,500 rounds per minute, making it an effective countermeasure against incoming missiles and other close-range threats that may slip past the ship’s primary defenses.

In addition to these installations, Taiwan is upgrading eight Block 1A CIWS units in the US, which are expected to be delivered by next year. These upgraded systems will be integrated into the navy’s newer platforms, including the Yushan-class landing platform docks and next-generation light frigates currently under construction.

Strengthening the "Last Line of Defense"

The Phalanx CIWS is often referred to as a ship’s “last line of defense” because it is the final barrier against incoming threats that get too close for longer-range interceptors. Its rapid-fire capability and quick response time are vital for neutralizing high-speed missiles or other threats in close proximity. The upgraded Block 1B version brings a significant advantage by enhancing targeting precision and extending the range of engagement, making it a key element in Taiwan’s strategy to counter potential attacks.

Earlier this year, the importance of CIWS was underscored in the Red Sea when a Houthi missile was intercepted just one nautical mile away from a US warship. This incident highlighted the critical role that close-in weapons play in modern naval combat, where milliseconds can make the difference between survival and disaster.

Preparing for Potential Conflict

The decision to invest in these upgrades comes as Taiwan faces increasing pressure from China, which has been conducting frequent military drills near the island. Many analysts believe these activities are rehearsals for a possible blockade or amphibious assault on Taiwan. In response, Taiwan has been enhancing its naval capabilities, including conducting exercises focused on repelling amphibious landings by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

With a reported budget of over 10 billion New Taiwan dollars (approximately $313 million), these upgrades are part of Taiwan’s broader strategy to fortify its defenses against a possible Chinese invasion. The deployment of the advanced Phalanx CIWS systems is just one element of Taiwan’s effort to ensure its naval forces remain capable of defending the island nation in a worst-case scenario.

Conclusion

Taiwan’s move to bolster its naval capabilities with these advanced close-in weapons systems reflects the island’s growing concern over China’s aggressive posture. The enhanced Phalanx Block 1B systems provide a critical edge in protecting Taiwan’s warships and ensuring they can effectively respond to various threats. As Taiwan continues to modernize its military assets, these upgrades are a clear signal of its determination to defend its sovereignty in increasingly challenging geopolitical conditions.