Taiwanese Navy’s First Upgraded Kang Ding Frigate to Bolster Maritime Defense in 2025

The Taiwanese Navy is set to receive its first modernized Kang Ding-class frigate, ROCS Chen De, later this year, as part of the island's ambitious military modernization strategy initiated in 2021. This upgrade marks a significant milestone in Taiwan's efforts to enhance its maritime defense capabilities amid increasing regional tensions.

A Leap in Combat Capability

ROCS Chen De, the sixth ship of the Kang Ding-class fleet, will be the first to complete its upgrades by September 2025. The modernization involves advanced systems that significantly bolster the frigate's defensive and offensive capacities. A notable addition is the cutting-edge radar system supplied by BAE Systems, similar to those used by the UK Royal Navy. This radar system provides enhanced situational awareness and target tracking, crucial for modern naval warfare.

Additionally, the frigate will feature a new vertical launch system capable of deploying up to 32 surface-to-air missiles. These missiles have a range of 30 kilometers (19 miles), a substantial improvement over the original missile system, which had a maximum range of only six kilometers (3.7 miles). This extended range will allow the ship to better counter aerial threats and defend its fleet against modern, high-speed aircraft and missile attacks.

Following the delivery of ROCS Chen De, Taiwan plans to upgrade the remaining five Kang Ding-class frigates, with all six expected to be operational by 2026. The total cost of the modernization project is projected to reach 43.15 billion New Taiwan dollars (approximately $1.3 billion).

Kang Ding-Class: A Proven Platform

The Kang Ding-class frigates are based on the French-designed La Fayette-class frigates, which are known for their stealthy design and versatility. The Kang Ding ships measure 125 meters (410 feet) in length, with a beam of 15 meters (49 feet). They can accommodate over 120 crew members and are equipped to carry two medium-sized support boats and a helicopter, such as the Sikorsky S-70 utility helicopter, enhancing their operational flexibility.

The frigates are armed with a variety of weapons, including:

• A 76mm naval gun for surface and aerial threats.
• A 40mm autocannon for close-range defense.
• A close-in weapon system (CIWS) for intercepting incoming missiles.
• Anti-ship and anti-surface missiles for offensive operations.

Powering these ships are four diesel engines that generate a combined output of 21,000 horsepower. This enables a top speed of 25 knots (46 kilometers or 29 miles per hour) and a remarkable range of 9,000 nautical miles (16,668 kilometers or 10,357 miles). These specifications make the Kang Ding-class frigates ideal for extended patrols and rapid deployment in Taiwan's maritime domain.

Strategic Significance

The modernization of the Kang Ding-class frigates underscores Taiwan's commitment to fortifying its naval strength amid rising geopolitical challenges. The upgraded ships will enhance Taiwan's ability to monitor and defend its waters, deter potential aggression, and maintain freedom of navigation in the region.

As Taiwan faces an increasingly complex security environment, these advanced frigates will play a pivotal role in safeguarding the island's interests. The delivery of the revamped ROCS Chen De is a testament to Taiwan's resolve to maintain a modern and capable defense force, ensuring its maritime sovereignty and contributing to regional stability.