Britain aids Taiwan’s submarine force to fend off China

BRITISH defence companies are helping Taiwan build a fleet of submarines to confront the threat of Chinese invasion, according to an investigation.

Submarine-technology vendors from at least seven countries, with the approval of their governments, have been involved in the project to build vessels and assist with technology, components and expertise, said Reuters.

Taiwan has been unable to purchase submarines directly from other countries because of concerns that it could damage bilateral ties with Beijing, which claims the island democracy as its own territory.

The US, Taipei’s biggest arms supplier, has provided key parts, including combat-system components and sonars.

Britain has approved export licences in the past three years for 28 UK companies to supply sub components, technology or software to Taiwan.

Taipei has had help from Australia, South Korea, India, Spain and Canada for its navy and state-backed shipbuilder CSBC Corporation, reflecting growing concern over China’s expanding military might.