Official announcements from the U.S. Department of Defense or Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense

Taiwan Receives M1A2T Abrams Tanks and $295 Million Arms Sale from US Under Biden's 19th Approval Amid China Tensions

Dec 21, 2024, 03:23 AM

Taiwan has received the first batch of 38 M1A2T Abrams tanks from the United States, marking the first delivery of U.S. tanks to the island in 23 years. These tanks, part of a larger order of 122 expected over the next two years, represent a significant upgrade in firepower and protection compared to Taiwan's current fleet of decades-old M60 and M48 tanks. The arrival of the M1A2T Abrams tanks comes amid increasing tensions with China, which opposes U.S.-Taiwan military cooperation. Additionally, the U.S. has approved a $295 million arms sale to Taiwan under the Biden administration, marking the 19th arms sale, which includes upgraded tactical data link systems and gun mounts for ships. This latest package aims to enhance Taiwan's communications and defense capabilities against current and future threats.