Kaohsiung: The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) on Thursday commissioned the 10th 600-ton class patrol vessel, CG612 “Suao,” at a ceremony in Kaohsiung, underscoring the government’s commitment to maritime sovereignty.

According to Focus Taiwan, at the same event, another vessel of the same class, CG613, was officially named “Lanyu” and launched. It will be deployed to the CGA’s mobile flotilla in eastern Taiwan to bolster law enforcement in the region.

The “Suao” measures 65 meters in length and 14.8 meters in width, capable of reaching a maximum speed of 40 knots with a range of 2,000 nautical miles. Equipped with a high-pressure water cannon and patrol boats, it is designed for firefighting, law enforcement, and search and rescue missions. The vessel features a low-resistance hull design and improved crew accommodations, enhancing operational performance and living conditions on board.

Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) Minister Kuan Bi-ling, who presided over the ceremony, mentioned that the “Suao” was named by Premier Cho Jung-tai in January and has now formally entered service. She also stated that the “Lanyu” will enhance the Coast Guard’s presence in eastern waters in collaboration with local communities.

Kuan highlighted the achievements of the Anping-class fleet, such as rescuing the crew of a Taiwanese fishing boat that caught fire in international waters between Taiwan and Japan, intercepting smugglers carrying Vietnamese stowaways and marijuana, monitoring Chinese research vessels, and supporting military drills including the Han Kuang exercises.

The CGA announced plans to continue expanding its fleet and strengthening its capabilities in law enforcement, rescue operations, protection of fishing rights, maritime services, and marine conservation.