Taiwan receives 38 US Abrams tanks to strengthen military in face of growing Chinese threat

TAIPEI, TAIWAN: Taiwan has received 38 M1A2 Abrams battle tanks from the United States, bolstering its military readiness amid ongoing threats from China.

The tanks, part of a larger order placed in 2019, arrived late on Sunday (15 December) and have been transferred to a training base in Hsinchu, south of the capital, Taipei.

The Republic of China (ROC) Ministry of Defence released footage showing the arrival of the tanks and their transport to the base.

Military personnel were seen uncovering the tanks and examining them, with cranes assisting in unloading.

The video caption included a teaser, hinting at the tanks’ full operational capabilities once assembled.

“The accessories are yet to be installed due to transportation requirements. Please look forward to their spectacular debut when they are fully operational!”

These Abrams tanks, among the heaviest and most advanced in the world, mark Taiwan’s first tank deliveries in three decades.

They are set to replace aging models like the CM 11 Brave Tiger and M60A3 tanks, which are now considered obsolete.

The delivery is part of Taiwan’s broader strategy to modernise its military in the face of China’s growing military pressure.

Taiwan has long relied on the US as its primary arms supplier, which has led to heightened tensions with Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.

Despite the threat, the US continues to provide Taiwan with critical military support, including the Abrams tanks, which Taiwan ordered as part of an over US$1.2 billion deal.

The remaining 70 tanks are expected to be delivered by 2025 and 2026.

Despite delays in deliveries caused by COVID-19 and a backlog of US arms supplies, Taiwan has continued to invest in its defence capabilities.

The island has allocated a record US$19 billion for its military budget in 2024, a move reflecting the ongoing threat posed by China.