Taiwan Submarines Face Torpedo Shortage Amid U.S. Procurement Delays

Taiwan's underwater combat readiness faces a critical challenge as the acquisition of MK-48 Mod 6 AT heavy torpedoes from the United States experiences significant delays. This procurement issue, attributed to global military supply chain disruptions, could lead to a situation where submarines are operational but lack their primary offensive weaponry.

The delivery of 24 MK-48 torpedoes is now anticipated between 2027 and 2028, with the entire procurement project slated for completion in 2030. In the interim, Taiwan's underwater defense capabilities will depend heavily on its existing fleet of German-made SUT heavy torpedoes. These torpedoes have been in service for over four decades and have undergone multiple life-extension engineering projects by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) to maintain their operational status.

These aging SUT torpedoes have a unique history, originating from a secret diplomatic exchange in the 1980s. Despite facing challenges such as hull corrosion and declining electronic performance, NCSIST and the Navy have worked to extend their service life. Their effectiveness was notably demonstrated in a 2020 Han Kuang exercise, where a Sword Dragon-class submarine successfully sank a decommissioned target vessel with an SUT torpedo, proving its continued deterrence capability.

Amidst heightened cross-strait tensions, the Ministry of National Defense is actively exploring alternative solutions with the U.S., including the possibility of "borrowing" active-duty heavy torpedoes from U.S. military stockpiles for emergency use. While the first upgraded Sword Dragon-class submarine has successfully tested both MK-48 and SUT training torpedoes, ensuring the high readiness of the aging SUT torpedoes during this transition period remains crucial for maintaining Taiwan's underwater strategic advantage.

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the first upgraded Sword Dragon-class submarine has already used MK-48 and SUT操雷 (training rounds) for live firing and test shots, verifying system compliance.