In a recent tweet shared by Ryan Chan on September 21, 2022, fresh images of the third vessel from the Taiwanese Tuo Chiang-class corvette series have surfaced.

The Tuo Chiang-class corvette stands as a remarkable testament to Taiwan’s indigenous naval capabilities. Engineered for speed and stealth, these multi-mission corvettes have been purpose-built to serve the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy. This ambitious project was officially unveiled by the Ministry of National Defense in Taiwan on April 12, 2010.

In a significant development, the Legislative Yuan in Taiwan allocated a substantial budget of NT$24.98 billion (equivalent to US$853.4 million) in 2011 to finance the construction of up to 12 of these cutting-edge vessels.

A major milestone was achieved in December 2020 when the first enhanced Tuo Chiang-class corvette, named PGG-619 Ta Chiang, was launched in Yilan. The plan entails delivering six improved models by 2023.

The Tuo Chiang-class design is strategically tailored to counter the growing number of advanced vessels within the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). It does so by employing hit-and-run tactics and incorporates several key features aimed at minimizing detection. These include a sleek upper structure design with minimal extrusions to reduce radar visibility, pre-cooled engine exhaust to lower infrared signature, and a reduced visual profile to decrease the likelihood of detection.

This vessel boasts a wave-piercing catamaran configuration, measuring 60.4 meters (198 feet) in length and 14 meters (46 feet) in width, while accommodating a crew of 41. Its capabilities extend to a top speed of 40 knots and an impressive range of 2,000 nautical miles (3,700 km; 2,300 mi).

Armament-wise, the Tuo Chiang-class is equipped with eight subsonic Hsiung Feng II and eight supersonic Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missile launchers, a Phalanx Close-In Weapons System for close-range defense, and a formidable 76 mm (3-inch) main gun.

In terms of operational conditions, this vessel can bravely navigate up to sea state 7, even in waves reaching heights of 20–30 feet (6.1–9.1 meters). It is a testament to Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining a capable and versatile naval presence in the region.