Chi Yang-class [Knox] Frigate
Taiwan's Kuang Hua [Glorious China] naval modernization program includes
the lease of eight Knox-class frigates from the United States, which are are
equipped with the U.S.-made Harpoon ASCM. The primary mission of these newer
frigates is sea control, particularly the capability to protect the sea lanes
beyond the range of coastal aircraft. In 1998 the United States agreed to
provide four Knox class frigates to Taiwan as part of the third batch of
delivery and to sell all six of the same class of frigates which were previously
leased to Taiwan. Two of the four Knox-class frigates were scheduled to arrive
in Taiwan in September 1999 to enter service; while another two frigates, to be
bought at bargain prices, will be scrapped and their parts used as logistics
support for other frigates of same class. The ROC Navy will possess eight Knox
class frigates at the same time, counting the original six frigates.
Under the ROC Navy's long-term Weapons System Modernization [WSM] Plan, the
Knox class frigates will be upgraded when budget constraints ease. The Plan is
aimed at greatly upgrading the frigates' air defense, anti-submarine, and
electronic warfare capabilities. The Plan calls for modernizing the Knox class
frigates with a new type of combat combat command center and equipping them with
new radars, active towed array sonars, Phalanx or area air defense vertical
launch systems, and active and passive electronic warfare systems. Some of the
equipment will also be fitted in other new-generation warships, such as
replacing the much-criticized Sea Chaparral missiles on the Kang Ding class
frigates with a similar type of new air defense vertical launch system.
Specifications
|
| Builder |
|
| Propulsion |
steam turbines |
| Length |
438 feet / 133 meters |
| Beam |
46.5 feet / 14.2 meters |
| Draft |
24.5 feet / 7.5 meters |
| Displacement |
4,250 tons full load |
| Endurance |
|
| Speed |
27 knots |
| Crew |
250 |
| Armament |
- 1 - 8-cell ASROC (16 ASROC or 12 ASROC + 4 Harpoon SSM)
- 1 - 5-inch/54 gun
- 1 - 20 mm Phalanx CIWS
- 4 - 12.75 inch torpedo tubes
|
| Construction |
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