Taiwan has successfully conducted the maiden torpedo test firing for its first domestically developed submarine, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to bolster deterrence against the Chinese navy . The move is crucial for safeguarding vital sea lanes should a conflict arise. The self-governing island, which Beijing claims as its own territory, has prioritised its indigenous submarine programme as a core component of an ambitious military modernisation drive. This initiative comes as China escalates its military presence, conducting almost daily exercises to assert its sovereignty claims over Taiwan. The submarine project has notably benefited from international expertise and technology, including contributions from the United States and Britain. This collaboration represents a breakthrough for diplomatically isolated Taiwan, whose government firmly rejects Beijing's territorial assertions.…