Taiwan is putting billions into new support ships so its fleet can stay at sea longer and rescue submarines in trouble — a sign it expects a possible blockade, not a short fight.

• Taiwan's navy has asked lawmakers for money to build a new fuel-and-ammunition supply ship, part of the 2027 defense budget just sent to parliament.
• Supply ships let warships refuel and rearm at sea, which matters if China blockades or bombs Taiwan's ports in a war.
• One of the navy's two current supply ships dates back to 1990 and is worn out, so the replacement is urgent.
• More money is going to two new rescue and salvage ships, replacing vessels over 80 years old that are hard to maintain.
• A dedicated submarine rescue ship is also planned, built to match Taiwan's new homegrown submarine program.

Outlook: Lawmakers will now debate the package, and the spending signals Taiwan is preparing for a drawn-out conflict rather than a quick one.