Taiwan pushes to build 11 1,000-ton vessels in seven years

Taiwan's President Lei Ching-deh says he plans to build 11 1,000-ton vessels against China's threat.

Taiwan's local media said Lai made the remarks during an encouraging visit to the coast guard's fleet in response to China's siege drills.

Taiwan's coast guard added that when the construction plan is completed in the next seven years, there will be 213 vessels.

Taiwanese authorities are pushing for a 30 trillion won shipbuilding project by 2026 to strengthen their naval power.