Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2017-05-04

Further assessment is needed on whether to use indigenous missiles on the navy’s US-made Perry class frigates. That was the word from the R.O.C. Navy’s chief of staff, Lee Tsung-hsiao on Thursday. The Republic of China (ROC) is Taiwan’s official name.

The navy recently took delivery of two US-made Perry-class frigates purchased in 2016. Former deputy defense minister Lee Shih-min had previously told the Legislature that domestically made Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missiles would be deployed on the frigates. However, more recent reports suggest alternatives are being considered.

Asked to clarify the navy’s position, Lee said the navy would prefer to install missiles that are compatible with the frigates’ MK13 missile launcher in order to save costs. Lee said further technical assessment will be needed before a final decision is made. [FULL  STORY]