Taipei, June 15: The Republic of China Army is preparing to field its newly acquired American-origin M1A2 Abrams main battle tanks (MBTs) in upcoming live-fire exercises, marking a significant step in Taiwan’s defence modernisation efforts. The move comes amid escalating military pressure from China across the Taiwan Strait.
According to The Eurasian Times, the live-fire drills — to be conducted by Taiwan’s Armour Training Command in Hsinchu County — will be the first training operation involving the advanced M1A2T Abrams tanks on Taiwanese soil.
The tanks are part of a 108-unit purchase agreement with the United States. The first batch of 38 tanks arrived in late 2024, with additional deliveries expected through the year. The M1A2T variant is tailored for Taiwan’s specific defence needs, incorporating advanced features such as a 120mm main gun, upgraded targeting systems, and enhanced composite armour designed to withstand modern anti-tank weaponry.
The tanks also come equipped with a customised battle management system (BMS) developed in Taiwan, improved thermal control systems to reduce their visibility to infrared targeting, and superior speed and mobility when compared to Taiwan’s ageing fleet of M60A3 and CM-11 tanks.
However, not all experts are convinced about the utility of the heavy Abrams tanks in Taiwan’s topography. Critics have raised concerns about their effectiveness in mountainous and urban terrains, arguing that their size and weight could limit operational flexibility. Others warn of potential vulnerability to drone attacks and helicopter strikes in confined or coastal environments.
Despite this, Taiwanese military analysts assert the tanks could play a pivotal role in defending against potential amphibious invasions by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), particularly at critical beachheads. “The Abrams may not be suited for all terrains, but they are a powerful deterrent against large-scale amphibious assaults,” said a senior Taiwanese defence official.
The drills come at a time of growing alarm over Beijing’s intentions. Admiral Samuel Paparo, chief of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, recently warned that China’s military manoeuvres near Taiwan are “dress rehearsals for forced unification.” Satellite imagery has also revealed China constructing large amphibious barges potentially capable of deploying troops via floating bridges.
As regional tensions simmer, Taiwan’s deployment of the Abrams underscores its continued push to fortify defences and enhance operational readiness in the face of a potential conflict. The Taiwanese defence ministry has reiterated its commitment to deterrence through strength, signalling that it will continue investing in modern platforms and joint training exercises with key allies.
With more Abrams tanks set to arrive, the island’s military posture is likely to grow more assertive, even as the strategic contest across the Strait intensifies.
