Taiwan successfully tested its home-made anti-ship cruise missile, signaling a breakthrough in its efforts to develop counter-strike capability against the mainland, defense officials said. The 300km-range Hsiung Feng III will be a significant boost to Taiwan's military deterrent capability, members of the legislature's defense committee said. The tests were conducted in late November and early December. According to Taiwan, the mainland has more than 600 missiles targeting the island, a number that increases at a rate of about 75 a year. "We need to be capable of striking back if they attack us," Taiwan's deputy defense minister said after news of the tests was revealed.