Taiwan Conducts Military Exercise with US Tanks

Taiwan’s President Lai Qingte is set to oversee the island’s military operations featuring US-made M1A2T Abrams tanks on Thursday. This is part of an ongoing yearly exercise designed to enhance Taiwan’s defense capabilities amidst rising tensions with China.

On the second day of the 10-day Han Kuan exercise, Lai observed the firing of four tanks, which were tested individually, in pairs, and collectively at a military site located south of Taipei. According to Taiwan’s Army, the tanks demonstrated a 100% accuracy rate when firing at both stationary and moving targets, even from fixed positions during maneuvers.

Lai referred to this year’s drills as “large-scale, realistic combat training,” emphasizing the importance of military readiness. He expressed that “if our military grows stronger, our nation, society, and people will feel safer. When our country is secure, it contributes to a more peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific region,” while addressing the troops and reporters at a base in Hsinchu County.

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The island has committed to purchasing 108 tanks from the US for $1.45 billion as part of a significant upgrade to its military capabilities. Enhancements will also include F-16V fighter jets, advanced missile defense systems, and stealth drones.

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China has persistently threatened the use of force to assert control over Taiwan, regularly harassing the island with military aircraft and vessels in surrounding waters.

Beijing has dismissed Taiwan’s military exercises as mere theatrics, unaffected by Taiwan’s clear stance against unification with China.

The US is Taiwan’s primary defense weapon supplier, often regarding threats to the island as matters of significant concern. However, it remains ambiguous whether the US would intervene in response to any aggressions from China.