According to information published by The Liberty Times on September 11, 2024, the Hailong underwater unmanned test vehicle, a collaboration between Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) and Lung Teh Shipbuilding, was spotted leaving the dock and embarking on its first sea trials.
New high-resolution images reveal the vehicle in detail as it sailed under its own power, showcasing a nearly complete surface structure that closely resembles a small submarine.
The development of the “Hailong” unmanned underwater vehicle coincided with Taiwan’s domestically produced “Haikun” submarine, which was launched last month. Following the Haikun’s debut, the Hailong was also seen undergoing tests near a local port. Military enthusiasts observed the Hailong moored in a small floating steel shed over the past two days, with most of its coverings removed, revealing a stark white hull. It was later guided out of its berth to begin its maiden sea trial.