# asymmetric deterrence

Taiwan’s Prototype Submarine Makes First Dive Amid Cost, Delay and Public Skepticism

Taiwan’s domestically built submarine prototype, Hai Kun, conducted its first submerged test on 29 January, initiating a staged programme that begins with a 50-metre dive and aims for 200 metres eventually. The milestone comes after a series of technical problems, schedule delays and public criticism over costs and performance, leaving the vessel still some way from operational readiness.