Two former U.S. Navy Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates, ex-USS Taylor (FFG 50) and ex-USS Gary (FFG 51), are expected to arrive in Taiwan this week, according to local media reports.
The frigates are expected to arrive at Zuoying Military Harbor in southern Taiwan’s Kaohsiung May 13, and later join the Navy’s 146th fleet, which is tasked with patrolling the Taiwan Strait.
PFG-1112 Feng Chia and PFG-1115 Ming Chuan, as the frigates were officially renamed, were acquired by Taiwan under a $190 million that was approved by the U.S. State Department in March 2016.
Prior to their delivery to Taiwan, the frigates had their mechanical and electrical systems, as well as selected combat systems reactivated and tested.
Additionally, Taiwan Navy crews received training on maintenance and operation of the FFG systems which included training in the classroom, on-the-job training, and underway operational exercises.