Taiwan has taken delivery of its first batch of 38 U.S. made M1A2T Abrams tanks, a major step in bolstering its defences against the ever-present threat of Chinese aggression. This marks the first time in nearly 25 years that the island has received new tanks, underscoring its commitment to modernising its military capabilities.
The tanks, which arrived at Taipei’s port on 15 December, were promptly transported to the Armor Training Command in Hsinchu County, southwest of the capital. Ten of these cutting-edge vehicles will remain there for training, while the rest are destined to fortify two key armoured brigades in Taipei and Hsinchu.
A Customised Powerhouse
The M1A2T is a tailored version of the M1A2 SEPv2 Abrams tank, boasting significant upgrades in firepower and protection compared to Taiwan’s older M60A3 and M48H/CM11 models. While those legacy tanks feature a 105mm main gun, the Abrams offers superior firepower and survivability, making it a critical addition to Taiwan’s defensive arsenal.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has confirmed that this initial batch will be followed by 42 tanks in 2024 and another 28 in 2026, completing an order placed in 2019. However, military analyst Chen Kuoming cautions that the 108 Abrams tanks are insufficient to replace ageing units across central and southern Taiwan.
“These tanks are primarily for defending the Taipei capital area,” Chen explained. “But with their current numbers, there are gaps in coverage elsewhere.”
Tanks: A Final Line of Defence
Tanks like the Abrams are seen as Taiwan’s last line of defence against a potential Chinese amphibious invasion. The island’s earlier defences include anti-ship missiles, artillery, rockets, and attack helicopters, which aim to halt enemy forces before they reach the shore.
Yet, lessons from the Russia, Ukraine war have revealed vulnerabilities in tank operations. Drones and loitering munitions have proven highly effective in targeting armoured vehicles. Chen highlights the need to equip the Abrams with upgraded defences against aerial threats, suggesting that Taiwan should also focus on modern warfare tactics and equipment.
“I want to encourage army officers to think about future wars,” he said. “Investments in lighter vehicles, small drones, loitering munitions, and portable anti-tank and air defence systems may yield greater returns than heavier tanks.”
Expanding the Arsenal
In addition to the Abrams tanks, Taiwan has received an initial batch of M142 HIMARS rocket launchers. The first tranche of 11 launchers arrived in October, with 18 more expected by 2026. The HIMARS units are stationed in Taichung, a strategic location midway down Taiwan’s west coast.
The army has also acquired MGM 140 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), which can be launched from the HIMARS platforms. With a range of 186 miles (300km), these missiles give Taiwan the capability to strike mainland China, significantly enhancing its deterrence.
A Balancing Act
As Taiwan strengthens its defences, questions remain about how best to allocate its record $20.2 billion defence budget. While the Abrams tanks represent a technological leap, analysts like Chen urge a balanced approach, ensuring the island is prepared for the evolving nature of warfare.
