Taiwan-Bound Harpoon Coastal Defense System Hits Target in US Navy Test
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The land-based Harpoon Coastal Defense System (HCDS) scored a direct hit in a US Navy developmental test ahead of its planned deployment to Taiwan. The test validated the system's ability to engage at-sea threats from a land-based launcher. Taiwan has ordered 100 launchers and 400 Harpoon Block II missiles under a 2023 deal worth up to $2.3 billion.
Key Facts
- The Harpoon Coastal Defense System successfully struck a test target vessel in near-shore waters during a developmental test.
- Taiwan's 2023 order covers 100 launchers and 400 RGM-84L-4 Harpoon Block II missiles, valued at up to $2.3 billion.
- At least five HCDS launchers and a radar vehicle have already been delivered to Taiwan.
- The HCDS is mounted on the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT), differing from Boeing's trailer-based launchers for Denmark and South Korea.
- Taiwan plans to deploy Harpoons, domestically-built missiles, and one-way attack drones to counter a potential Chinese invasion.
Test Details
The Boeing-made Harpoon Coastal Defense System successfully struck the test target during a developmental test. The test was designed to validate the ground-based Harpoon system's ability to engage at-sea threats, according to the Portfolio Acquisition Executive Munitions release. During the event, the Harpoon missile successfully launched from land and engaged the target vessel in near-shore/littoral waters. A Naval Air Systems Command official stated the event represents a significant milestone in delivering a high-priority defense capability to the field. Further trials will proceed in the second phase of the developmental phase to further validate the HCDS.
Taiwan Procurement
Taiwan procured the HCDS in a 2023 deal worth up to $2.3 billion for 100 launchers and 400 RGM-84L-4 Harpoon Block II missiles. Taiwan News reported that the contract was inked on behalf of Taipei by NAVAIR. The purchase supplements Taiwan's existing ship-to-surface and air-launched Harpoon stocks. At least five HCDS launchers and a radar vehicle have been delivered to Taiwan. The system is mounted on the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck, differing from Boeing's previously trailer-based Harpoon launcher designs for Denmark and South Korea.
Strategic Context
Taiwan's HCDS will operate alongside subsonic HF-2 and supersonic HF-3 launchers. Taiwanese forces have reinforced their stockpiles of domestically-built anti-ship missiles since the early 2020s. Between 2022 and 2026, HF stocks were bolstered by the hundreds under the Sea-Air Combat Power Improvement Plan. Further developments have expanded their ranges out to 1,500 kilometers. Taipei plans to deploy Harpoons, domestically-built missiles, and one-way attack drones to blunt a Chinese invasion attempt. Reuters estimates that the island's forces will possess at least 1,800 anti-ship missiles by 2029.
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Taiwan-Bound Harpoon Coastal Defense System Hits Target in US Navy Test
