Taiwan Establishes First HIMARS Unit with U.S. Military Support
The self-governing island of Taiwan has officially established its first military unit equipped with U.S.-made HIMARS multiple rocket launchers, marking a significant development in its defense capabilities. According to official statements from the Defense Ministry, the island has procured a total of 29 systems, with 11 already delivered last year. The unit’s commissioning ceremony was attended by Defense Minister Wellington Koo, who emphasized that the soldiers and officers underwent specialized training in the United States.
The HIMARS systems, capable of firing both GMLRS missiles (with a range of up to 80km) and ATACMS missiles (up to 300km), represent a significant leap in Taiwan’s asymmetric defense capabilities. The military conducted its first live-fire drill with these systems in mid-May, followed by additional tests in June. This development comes amid heightened tensions, with U.S. officials like former National Security Adviser Mike Waltz advocating for increased arms deliveries to bolster Taiwan’s ability to deter potential Chinese military action.
China has strongly condemned these U.S. arms sales, viewing them as provocative and a violation of the One-China principle. The island’s self-governance since 1949 has been a subject of geopolitical contention, with most countries, including Russia, recognizing Taiwan as part of China. In response to Western support, China has intensified naval and air drills around the region, underscoring the growing strategic importance of the area.