Matsu, located at the forefront of the Republic of China’s defense against potential threats from the Chinese Communist Party, is ramping up its maritime capabilities. This morning, the Matsu Coast Guard held an inaugural ceremony for its newly constructed patrol vessel, designated PP-35103, alongside a blessing ceremony for its mission ahead.
The new vessel, constructed from aluminum alloy, is equipped with dual high-speed engines and a water jet propulsion system, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 45 knots with a range of 600 nautical miles. This design ensures exceptional agility, enabling the vessel to respond effectively to various maritime emergencies.
The ceremony took place at Fu’ao Port in Nangan and was presided over by the secretary-general, who welcomed several distinguished guests, including the Magistrate of Lienchiang County, Wang Zhongming, along with local representatives, judicial officials, military personnel, and members of the fishing community. The gathering aimed to celebrate the commissioning of the new vessel and to invoke blessings for national prosperity, the safety of the people, and the successful execution of the vessel’s future missions, which include maritime patrol, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations.
According to the Coast Guard Administration, the Matsu sea area poses unique challenges because of its scattered islands and distinct maritime environment, which demand higher maneuverability and responsiveness from coast guard vessels. The PP-35103, with its aluminum alloy hull, high-speed engines, and water jet propulsion, is designed to excel in these conditions. It can swiftly navigate between islands and along coastal waters, ready to tackle various maritime incidents.
Additionally, this new vessel features a remotely operated high-pressure firefighting system capable of reaching a distance of 60 meters. This upgrade significantly enhances the Coast Guard’s capability to handle maritime fires and emergency rescues, augmenting its operational strength within the Matsu area.
The personnel engaging in coast guard duties in Matsu emphasize the critical nature of their role on the front lines. They are continuously tasked with addressing incursions by foreign vessels, illegal maritime activities, and urgent rescue needs. These frontline officers remain steadfast in their commitment to maintaining order in the maritime domain and ensuring the safety of the local population.
With the official integration of the PP-35103 into the operational fleet, the Matsu Coast Guard aims to enhance its patrolling capabilities, improving both law enforcement and emergency response efficiency. They plan to intensify their efforts in safeguarding the maritime territories, strictly curtailing illicit activities, and protecting the rights of local fishermen. Through these proactive measures, the Coast Guard seeks to assure the local communities and fishermen that their maritime environment is secure and well-protected.