In a significant development, Taiwan has commenced its largest yet military drills and exercises using US-supplied armor tanks amidst increasing tensions with China in the region.
Interestingly, Taiwan has also used US-made M1 Abrams tanks in a major military exercise, while also using them in a live-fire demonstration.
The exercise took place in Hsinchu County.
Four tanks moved across a muddy training ground and fired at both moving and stationary targets. President Lai Ching-te observed the drill. He said each boost in military power increases the island’s security.
Taiwan received the first 38 tanks in December. A total of 108 tanks are expected to arrive by next year. These are Taiwan’s first new tanks in 24 years.
While Taiwan has acquired the Abram M1 tanks in its military service, they are yet to be fully commissioned. According to details, these tanks would be ready for service by the Taiwan armed forces by the end of 2025.
China claims Taiwan as its territory. Beijing has increased military pressure around the island in recent years.
Analysts say Abrams tanks can help Taiwan in urban and coastal defense. But they also warn the tanks must be protected from drones and anti-tank weapons. Similar tanks in Ukraine have been damaged by drone attacks.
Taiwan officials say they will use counter-drone systems to protect their tanks. Some may be deployed from high ground for added security.
President Lai said the tanks can be integrated with drones and new tactics. This will help Taiwan meet its strategic goals.
Taiwan’s civil defense drills are also ongoing. On Thursday, supermarkets held evacuation exercises. Shoppers moved to basements as air raid sirens sounded.
Officials said civil society must be ready for all possible situations. China’s defense ministry dismissed Taiwan’s military drills as “a bluff.”
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