Taiwan receives 38 US-made Abrams tanks amid China threat

Taiwan’s defense ministry announced Monday the arrival of 38 M1A2 Abrams tanks from the United States, a move aimed at strengthening the island’s defenses against a potential attack from China. These tanks represent the first of 108 ordered in 2019.

The tanks arrived Sunday according to AFP and were transported to an army training base in Hsinchu, as confirmed by the defence ministry. Currently, Taiwan's tank arsenal comprises approximately 1,000 units, including locally manufactured CM 11 Brave Tiger and American M60A3 tanks, which are considered dated. The remaining tanks are scheduled for delivery in 2025 and 2026.

The US is Taiwan's main ally and arms supplier. China claims Taiwan as its territory and opposes such arms sales. Taiwan's government budgeted over $1.2 billion for the Abrams tanks.

China has not ruled out using force to take control of Taiwan. While Taiwan develops its own defense systems, it relies heavily on US arms sales for security. Delays in arms deliveries to Taiwan have occurred due to supply chain issues and US weapon shipments to Ukraine and Israel.

Taiwan’s 2024 defense budget is a record $19 billion, and next year’s is expected to be even higher, reflecting the island's focus on bolstering its defenses. China has intensified military activities around Taiwan, including recent large-scale maritime drills.