Taiwan Receives First 38 U.S. M1A2T Abrams Tanks in $1.25 Billion Deal, First Delivery in 30 Years

Dec 16, 2024, 06:40 AM

Taiwan has received its first batch of U.S.-made M1A2T Abrams tanks, with 38 units and four M88A2 armored recovery vehicles arriving at Taipei Port on Sunday via a national cargo vessel, as part of a NT$40.5 billion (US$1.25 billion) deal approved in 2019 during the Trump administration. The total order comprises 108 tanks featuring the Active Protection System (ACPS) unique to this Taiwan-specific variant, marking the island's first new tank delivery in 30 years. The tanks have been transported to the Army's Armor Training Command in Hsinchu County for training purposes. The arrival comes amid increasing tensions with China, which has mobilized warships and conducted military activities near the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense stated that the new tanks will enhance the island's defense capabilities against a potential Chinese attack, modernizing an aging armored fleet that currently relies on M60A3 tanks. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reaffirmed America's commitment, saying, "We'll continue to do what we can to help Taiwan acquire the means to defend itself."