Taiwan Bolsters Defense with Anti-Tank Missiles from US Taiwan is set to receive a substantial supply of anti-tank missiles from the United States by the end of the year, significantly enhancing its defense capabilities. This development comes amidst escalating tensions with China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory. The missile delivery is part of a broader military assistance package from the US to Taiwan, valued at billions of dollars. It includes precision-guided munitions, air defense systems, and surveillance equipment. The anti-tank missiles are designed to deter and repel potential amphibious or armored attacks. “These missiles will provide Taiwan with a critical tool to defend itself against any aggressor,” said a US defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “They are highly effective in destroying tanks and other armored vehicles, giving Taiwan a significant edge in the event of a conflict.” The missile transfer has sparked strong reactions from both China and Taiwan. Beijing condemned the move as “blatant interference in China’s internal affairs” and vowed to take “countermeasures.” Taiwan, on the other hand, welcomed the assistance, stating that it “demonstrates the US’s unwavering commitment to Taiwan’s security.” Analysts believe that the missile delivery signals a shift in US strategic thinking towards Taiwan. The Biden administration has become more vocal in its support for Taipei, recognizing the threat posed by China’s military buildup. “This is a major development that shows the US is fully behind Taiwan,” said Richard Fisher, a senior fellow at the International Assessment and Strategy Center. “It sends a clear message to Beijing that the US will not tolerate any attempt to use force against Taiwan.” The missile transfer is expected to bolster Taiwan’s confidence and strengthen its deterrent against potential aggression. It is also seen as a symbol of the growing strategic partnership between the US and Taiwan, which faces increasing pressure from China’s authoritarian regime.Taiwan to Receive TOW Anti-Tank Missiles from US by Year-End
Taiwan to Receive TOW Anti-Tank Missiles from US by Year-End Taiwan will receive its full order of 1,700 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles and 100 launchers from the United States by the end of this year, Defense Minister Wellington Koo announced. The delivery was originally scheduled to begin in 2022 but was delayed due to the weapons failing to meet U.S. military testing requirements. The TOW 2B is an advanced anti-tank missile system designed by Raytheon. It features a dual warhead system that attacks armored vehicles from above, making it effective against modern tanks. The missile system has been widely deployed around the world and remains in service with numerous armed forces. The TOW 2B missiles are part of Taiwan’s broader defense strategy to deter potential aggression. They are one of three major weapons packages Taiwan has secured from the US, which also include F-16V fighter jets and AGM-154 air-to-surface missile systems. The acquisition of these advanced defense systems comes at a critical time for Taiwan as it faces potential threats. The U.S. has committed to sending two F-16V prototypes to Taiwan for testing this year, with all 66 jets expected by the end of 2026. Michael McCaul, chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, has highlighted that approximately $20 billion worth of weapons are awaiting delivery to Taiwan, with industry-related issues being the main cause of delays. Taiwan’s strengthening of its military capabilities is seen as critical to ensuring its security and preparedness in the face of potential threats.
Taiwan is expected to receive a full supply of anti-tank missiles from the United States by the end of the year, according to a report by the Financial Times. The missiles, known as Javelin anti-tank missiles, are designed to destroy armored vehicles and fortifications. They are considered to be one of the most effective anti-tank weapons in the world. The US has been providing Taiwan with military equipment and training for decades. The sale of the Javelin missiles is the latest in a series of moves by the US to strengthen Taiwan’s defenses against China. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has threatened to use military force to take control of the island. Taiwan, on the other hand, considers itself an independent country. The US has a long-standing policy of strategic ambiguity towards Taiwan. This means that the US does not explicitly state whether or not it would come to Taiwan’s aid in the event of an invasion by China. However, the US has also made it clear that it opposes any unilateral change to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. The sale of the Javelin missiles is a clear signal that the US is committed to Taiwan’s security. The sale of the missiles is likely to further anger China. China has already condemned the US for selling arms to Taiwan. The Chinese government has said that the sale of the missiles is a “serious violation” of the One China policy. The One China policy is a US policy that recognizes China as the sole legitimate government of China.
