submarines could be used to block Chinese ports but are unlikely to be capable of countering China's submarine fleet. Planned upgrade In 2005, it was reported that the Chien Lung-class submarines would be upgraded to be capable of launching the UGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missile. US DoD notified the United States Congress of the sale to Taiwan of 32 UGM-84 Harpoon Block II missiles, along with two weapon control systems, other associated equipment and services, in 2008. The delivery of the Harpoon anti-ship missiles started in 2013 and was completed in 2016. The upgrade allows the Hai Lung-class submarines to be able to attack targets from the sea, such as the Port of Shanghai, as well as nuclear submarines at the secret naval base in Yulin on the island of Hainan. The Harpoon missiles have a range of about . The submarines can now attack targets both at sea and on land with Harpoon missiles. Boats See also List of submarine classes in service References External links Hai Lung (Sea Dragon)-class (Zwaardvis) Submarine - Globalsecurity Fast-attack boat efficacy questioned - Taipei Times Taiwan Navy Emphasizing Domestic Shipbuilding Program in Ongoing Maritime Restructure - USNI News Taiwan seeking Aegis destroyers from U.S.: report - Reuters Absalon Class Littoral Support Ships - Defense Media Network Why Taiwan Needs Submarines - The Heritage Foundation Chien Lung/Hai Lung type for Taiwan - Dutch Submarines Submarine classes 1986 ships Ships built by Wilton-Fijenoord Netherlands–Taiwan relations