Defense News

In response to media reports that "hundreds of millions of paint bids were rattled with shady dealing," the Navy Maintenance and Repair Command said today (20) that such media reports are not factual and offered the following explanation:

1. According to the related provisions of Government Procurement Law, the paint bidding project for ROCN Tian Dan is a task that combines both material and labor procurement, which is processed by public bidding, and manufacturers are required to use paint that meets the military regulations of the US Navy.

2. During docking inspection of the Tian Dan frigate in August, part of the paint was found to be peeled off and the hull was attached with some traces of sea creatures. However, the bottom paint of the vessel could still be seen, demonstrating that this type of paint still retains the feature of being uneasy for sea creatures to attach and is thus in compliance with the specifications. Furthermore, warships polished with this type of paint are currently in normal use with underwater equipment.

3. For the hull peeling of the Tian Dan frigate, the Navy has required the manufacturer to perform the warranty in compliance with the contract. However, due to frequent rains recently, it currently cannot meet operating standards. However, since the peeling paint will not affect the safety of vessel navigation, it has sailed out of the dock and performed combat readiness tasks. Once weather permits, the frigate will be docked for painting works as soon as possible.

4. The use planning of inventory paints in the warehouses with the Navy has been completed, and no storage expiry as reported by the media.

5. Procurements in this case were handled in accordance with regulations, and the media are urged to do their jobs and be responsible for verification, as well as refrain from exaggerated reports.