Taiwan packed its new coast guard vessels with anti-ship missiles. Now it's readying them for a fight with China.

Taiwan recently showcased its new coast guard vessels, which are equipped with anti-ship missiles, during a major littoral combat drill on Saturday. The Bali, an Anping-class frigate, took the lead in the exercise, which simulated an amphibious landing attack by Chinese forces. The frigate is capable of firing up to 16 anti-ship missiles, making it functionally dual-use for both maritime patrols and potential warfare.

These missile-capable coast guard vessels are part of Taiwan's strategy to serve as a second navy in the event of conflict with China. The Bali was loaded with these missile launchers during a separate drill on Thursday, highlighting Taiwan's plan to integrate its coast guard into joint operations with its main fleet. The Anping-class frigate, based on a Taiwanese naval corvette, features a catamaran hull that allows it to navigate the rough seas of the Taiwan Strait swiftly and smoothly.

The Hsiung Feng II and III anti-ship missiles, which can be launched from either mobile ground launchers or the frigate itself, are relatively new additions to Taiwan's naval arsenal. With 12 frigates in the fleet, Taiwan could potentially field a second navy armed with up to 192 anti-ship missiles if all vessels are fully equipped for war.