Thirty-eight M1A2T tanks from the US have been delivered to Taiwan, making up the first batch of deliveries from an order of 108 units. The shipment was transported to a military training center in Hsinchu in the early hours of Monday. During the day, personnel from the US could be seen assisting local troops unpack the equipment. An expert says the tanks will greatly enhance Taiwan’s land defenses when used in conjunction with rocket systems. Let’s hear more.

Hsu Hsiao-huang
Institute for National Defense and Security Research
In many aspects, M1A2T marks a significant improvement from the older M60A3 model in terms of mobility. Features such as the thermal imaging system and the rangefinder allow it to quickly detect and neutralize enemies while moving. Taiwan’s land-based artillery is actually rather outdated. There is a pressing need to upgrade our equipment’s precision, mobility and firepower, and we have been seeing gradual improvements in these areas. In addition to the recently-acquired HIMARS system, the M1-series tanks will mark a significant improvement for our armored forces in land combat.

Wang Ting-yu
Lawmaker (DPP)
The first batch will be deployed in Northern Taiwan, to enhance the defense of the capital. They will also serve to strengthen Taiwan’s national defense capabilities and greatly improve Taiwan’s armored warfare tactics, operations and equipment. Should China decide to launch an amphibious assault, once they reach the shore and are up against the M1A2Ts, they will most definitely have to reconsider their approach.

The military has released footage of the tank for all to see. Its turret is located in the rear of the vehicle, and, for now, the muzzle of the gun is covered in plastic wrap. The vehicle also features track skirts on its sides to boost its armor. All 108 M1A2Ts are scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2026. They are expected to be deployed in northern Taiwan to defend the capital.

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