The navy has installed 13 Phalanx Block 1B close-in weapons systems on its warships, increasing their defensive firepower, a defense official said on Saturday.
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.
Photo: Screen grab from the navy’s Facebook page
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.
Taiwanese warships typically have a point defense battery consisting of one or two Phalanx systems, he added.
The navy is to test the Sea Oryx Missile System, which was developed by the Chunghsan Institute of Science and Technology as a potential replacement for the Phalanx system, in live-fire exercises scheduled for later this month, he said.
The navy believes the US-made RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile or one of equivalent capability would be the best choice to use as point defense weapons on future warships, he added.
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