During this week, reports from local Taiwanese media have begun to indicate that the country’s Navy is interested in resuming negotiations with the U.S. to move forward with the purchase of new anti-submarine helicopters, namely the MH-60R Seahawk. According to consulted officials, Washington has also shown interest in carrying out this operation, which would allow the renewal of the fleet of 17 S-70C helicopters currently operated by the Navy to support its combat ships in anti-submarine operations.
It is worth recalling that the Taiwanese Navy originally had a fleet of 21 S-70C helicopters, which was reduced to the mentioned 17 units after four incidents left the platforms out of service. If the purchase of the new MH-60Rs proceeds, Taipei would initially aim for a fleet of between 10 and 12 units, although recently it was suggested that the government might be interested in expanding that number to an unspecified total. While awaiting negotiations with the U.S., some military sources have mentioned a total of 13 or more units, with an additional purchase of anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and anti-submarine sonars, among other associated equipment.
Further details indicate that the Navy has already created a specialized team to manage the acquisition, including the number of helicopters, costs, and delivery schedules. It was also noted that the current plan of the naval authorities is to use funds from the special defense acquisition budget approved by the government.
Local analysts highlighted that advancing the purchase of these helicopters would follow the trend observed among other regional U.S. allies, who could potentially be involved in a conflict with China should it attempt reunification with Taiwan by force. In this context, it is useful to note that South Korea has already received its first MH-60 helicopters since last year, while New Zealand recently announced a decision to acquire five units to strengthen its anti-submarine capabilities.
Finally, it should be noted that alongside these developments, the Taiwanese Navy is also awaiting the delivery of the first prototypes of future light frigates, which are being built by the local industry. This program currently faces significant delays, as the first two units were expected this month, but recent estimates indicate they may not be in the hands of Taiwanese sailors until 2027. One of these two vessels is expected to be an anti-submarine variant, equipped with 16 missiles in inclined launchers, torpedoes, and a towed sonar.
*Images used for illustrative purposes
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