KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan — Taiwan's largest-ever missile ship went into service Tuesday after a ceremony presided over by President Ma Ying-jeou as the island strives to modernize its military in response to a perceived threat from China.
Ma praised the corvette's "stealth and speed" at the ceremony involving hundreds of naval officers and said it "reflects the determination by the military to defend national security".
Armed with 16 missiles, the ship will strengthen Taiwan's defense capabilities. China still considers the island part of its territory waiting to be reunited — by force if necessary.
The 500-tonne corvette, named 'Tuo Chiang' ('Tuo River'), will be deployed following the ceremony at the southern Tsoying naval base.
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