Taiwan begins work on home-built submarine to 'protect autonomy'

First-of-its-kind vessel based on Japan's cutting-edge diesel model

20201124N Taiwan sub

A Taiwanese Navy submarine takes part in a drill off the island's northeastern coast in 2018. Upgrading the fleet has been a priority. © Reuters

YU NAKAMURA, Nikkei staff writer

TAIPEI -- Taiwan has began constructing its first home-built defense submarine, part of the self-ruled island's efforts to bolster its defense capabilities in response to growing pressure from mainland China.

"Peace is dependent on national defense," Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen said Tuesday at a ceremony to mark the event. "By building our own submarines, we will demonstrate our strong commitment to protecting Taiwan's autonomy."

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