Taiwan first homebuilt submarine

Taiwan has launched its first domestically built submarine. It’s called Hai Kun and it’s a diesel-electric attack submarine. The launch of the HaiKun is the result of Taiwan’s efforts to replace aging naval capacity and comes after the country’s decision to build its own submarines to replace the four submarines currently operated by the Republic of China Navy. It is reported that Taiwan received significant foreign assistance in building the submarine, although 40% of the components are local. Reuters also reported that Taiwan had recruited retired engineers and submariners from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, India, Spain and Canada to work on the program and advise the ROCN on submarine construction and operations.