Exactly a year ago, on Sept. 28, 2023, Taiwan launched its first domestically built submarine—the “Hai Kun” (Narwhal). The underwater craft is set to enter service in 2025 and is part of a planned fleet of seven submarines. This project has received significant international support, including assistance from U.S. defense contractor Lockheed Martin for the weapon system. Other countries such as Australia, South Korea, India, Spain, and Canada have also contributed parts and manpower.
Australia’s involvement in this submarine project will make it the seventh country in the world to possess nuclear-powered submarines. However, these submarines will only carry conventional weapons as part of AUKUS’s commitment to non-nuclear proliferation.
The AUKUS partnership extends beyond submarines and includes a focus on advanced technologies and defense capabilities. Member nations are working together to develop hypersonic weapons, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity measures, electronic warfare systems, quantum technology advancements, and underwater systems.
In addition to submarines and advanced technologies development efforts by AUKUS member nations like Australia are also focused on enhancing their military capabilities through the acquisition of long-range precision-guided weapons such as Tomahawk cruise missiles and hypersonic missile technology. These additions will significantly increase Australia’s offensive power potentiality shifting the regional military balance.
Despite China’s ongoing submarine construction efforts there have been setbacks that raise questions about its ability to achieve regional dominance. The recent incident involving a sinking nuclear submarine highlights potential undisclosed blunders within China’s military development program adding uncertainties surrounding its ambitions.
While this incident may not derail China’s overall military plans it serves as a reminder that their path towards regional hegemony is filled with internal and external obstacles
