Based on recently revealed Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) images, an AIDC F-CK-1 fighter of the Taiwan Air Force (ROKAF) was observed for the first time equipped with the supersonic HF-3 anti-ship missile. In the photograph that went viral on social media, a single missile could be identified under one of the aircraft’s wings, featuring inscriptions and positioning markings that indicate its use for testing and evaluations.
Although the project to equip F-CK-1 fighters with new anti-surface combat capabilities faced several delays, including its suspension, the recently disclosed images suggest that the Taiwan Air Force has taken a new step in the integration process of the HF-3 missile with the fighter aircraft. This effort has been supported by the Chung-Shan National Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) since 2022.
The program’s objective was to develop and produce, on a small scale, an air-to-surface variant of the HF-3 missile within six years. The primary goal is to miniaturize and compact the missile while maintaining its length below 5.5 meters, its diameter under 36 cm, and its weight below 900 kilograms. In September 2024, project authorities confirmed that testing had resumed, including performance evaluations of the missile in flight conditions over maritime environments. Operational tests are scheduled to begin this year, potentially involving missile separation tests from the aircraft to simulate the launch process, as well as a first live-fire test from the designated launch platform.
The Hsiung-Feng III is an anti-surface missile commonly referred to as a “Carrier Killer.” It is characterized by its supersonic speed, a range of up to 400 kilometers, and a 225-kilogram warhead. Its propulsion system features a ramjet engine, which requires an external booster to reach the necessary speed before ignition. However, it remains uncertain whether this feature is present in the air-launched version.
Developed by NCSIST, the HF-3 missile is part of Taiwan’s strategy to deter potential military aggression from the People’s Republic of China. It is currently integrated into Taiwan’s Armed Forces defense system, deployed from coastal defense land-based launchers and surface ships.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the Hsiung-Feng III was first tested in 1997 and has been deployed on Taiwan Navy’s Kang Ding-class and Cheng Kung-class frigates since 2007. It is also part of the armament aboard the Tuo Chiang-class corvettes, alongside other missile systems. This new step by the Taiwan Air Force would provide superior long-range maritime combat capabilities from a new launch platform, significantly enhancing the island’s deterrence capabilities against a potential aggression from the People’s Liberation Army.
You may also like: The first crews of the Taiwanese Army begin their training with the new M1A2T Abrams tanks acquired from the U.S
