Taiwan Bolsters Defense: 42 More M1A2T Tanks Incoming

Military Readiness Upgraded as Second Batch of Advanced Tanks Heads to Taiwan

Taipei, May 13 - Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) has announced that it will receive a second shipment of 42 M1A2T tanks by the second quarter of 2025, significantly enhancing its defense capabilities.

The MND presented this information in a recent report submitted to the Legislative Yuan, outlining the anticipated delivery schedule. Following the 42 tanks expected next year, an additional 28 M1A2T tanks are slated for delivery by the first quarter of 2026.

The United States State Department approved Taiwan's request to acquire a total of 108 M1A2T tanks and associated equipment back in 2019. The initial batch of 38 tanks was delivered to Taiwan in December 2024, marking a key step in bolstering the nation's defense infrastructure.

The MND confirmed that the production and delivery of the tanks are proceeding as planned. To ensure adherence to the timeline and maintain quality control, liaison officers stationed in the U.S. are actively monitoring the production facility, visiting every two months to oversee progress and track delivery schedules.

Simultaneously, training programs for personnel to operate and maintain the tanks have commenced. A combat readiness evaluation is scheduled for the second half of this year, ensuring that the military is prepared for effective deployment.

Furthermore, the MND stated that additional training exercises will be conducted at the tank bases to integrate the new tanks into existing operational plans. The vehicles will be fully operational and ready for deployment following successful completion of the necessary evaluations.