TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s first indigenous submarine, the Hai Kun, left Kaohsiung Port on Tuesday to begin sea trials.

The vessel, with hull number 711, departed the CSBC shipyard around 8 a.m., with over 10 personnel on deck and others visible atop the sail, where the electro-optical mast was raised, per CNA. A small escort vessel accompanied the Hai Kun as it sailed out for its first sea acceptance test.

The Hai Kun performed harbor maneuvers on Saturday, per Liberty Times. Sources confirmed the submarine had completed its harbor acceptance test and was now conducting propulsion and onboard systems tests on the surface.

To secure the area, the Navy has reportedly deployed M109 assault boats, Kuang Hua VI missile boats, and Cheng Kung-class frigates, with additional air support to ensure a safe and successful trial.

The Navy previously said the government remains committed to its goal of commissioning the submarine by November. The Hai Kun is part of Taiwan’s indigenous submarine program, launched in response to growing pressure from China.