Cheng Kung-class (PFG 2)

Summary

Description

The Cheng Kung-class frigates are a series of eight guided-missile frigates operated by the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy. These ships are based on the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates that were used by the United States Navy. The lead ship of the class is ROCS Cheng Kung (成功, PFG2-1101).

The origins of the Cheng Kung-class frigates began with ROCS Cheng Kung, the lead ship laid down on December 2, 1990. It was subsequently launched on October 27, 1991, and finally commissioned into service on May 7, 1993. The design of the class mimics the later "long hull" versions of the Oliver Hazard Perry class, but incorporates a different suite of weapons and electronics.

Regarding the ships' design and armament, the Taiwanese frigates are outfitted to manage a variety of weapon systems which the Mk 92 fire control system could not integrate. To adequately control these weapons, a secondary combat direction system, the H930 MCS, was installed on all eight vessels. The ships' main armament includes eight HF-2 anti-ship missiles, with the possibility of a mix of HF-2 and HF-3 missiles on PFG-1101 and PFG-1105, which are the first and fifth ships in the series. Additionally, they are equipped with two Bofors 40 mm/L70 guns, except for PFG-1110. Future upgrades as part of major overhauls are expected to include the integration of four HF-3 missiles on the remaining ships.

The Cheng Kung-class has been in operation with the Taiwanese Navy since the commission of the lead ship in 1993, serving primarily as surface combatants for Taiwan's maritime defense. They fulfill a range of missions that likely includes anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and potentially maritime interdiction and escort duties. The ships operate exclusively under the flag of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and form a significant part of its surface combatant fleet, likely contributing toward the nation's efforts to counterbalance the naval capabilities of the People's Republic of China and to assert control over its surrounding waters.

Technical specifications