Taiwan has taken delivery of 38 advanced M1A2 Abrams battle tanks from the United States, marking its first acquisition of new tanks in three decades. The tanks, part of a larger 108-unit order made in 2019, arrived on Sunday and were transported to a military training base in Hsinchu, south of Taipei, according to Taiwan’s defense ministry.
These tanks, a cornerstone of the US military’s arsenal, will significantly enhance Taiwan’s outdated tank fleet, which includes locally made CM 11 Brave Tiger tanks and older US-made M60A3 tanks. The new M1A2s reflect a broader effort to modernize Taiwan’s defense capabilities as it faces increasing pressure from China.
Growing Threats and Beijing’s Reaction
China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, has ramped up military activity around the island in recent years, regularly deploying warships and aircraft to intimidate Taipei. Beijing has condemned the US arms sales, urging Washington to cease military support for Taiwan and accusing the island of seeking independence with foreign assistance. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson reiterated that attempts to secure independence with external help are “doomed to fail.”
The Abrams Tank Deal
The $1.2 billion deal for the Abrams tanks underscores Taiwan’s reliance on US military equipment to maintain its defense readiness. The remaining tanks are scheduled for delivery in 2025 and 2026. However, global supply chain disruptions and US arms commitments to Ukraine and Israel have delayed many weapons deliveries, creating a backlog exceeding $21 billion.
Rising Defense Expenditures
Taiwan has steadily increased its defense spending to counter the growing threat from China. The island allocated a record $19 billion for its 2024 defense budget, with plans for further increases in the coming years. Recent reports suggest that China has conducted large-scale naval drills, practicing blockades and simulating attacks on foreign vessels, further intensifying regional tensions.
Strategic Implications
While Taiwan continues to upgrade its military capabilities, it remains outmatched by China’s massive military in terms of troop numbers and firepower. The delivery of Abrams tanks, however, represents a significant step in strengthening Taiwan’s ground forces and reinforcing its defensive posture amid escalating tensions in the region.
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