Taiwan’s military has publicly revealed the firepower of its latest US-acquired M1A2T Abrams tanks during the ongoing Han Kuang annual drills, aimed at strengthening the island’s defences against potential Chinese aggression.
On Thursday, four Abrams tanks were showcased navigating muddy terrain at a training ground in Hsinchu County, engaging both stationary and moving targets. President Lai Ching‑te, wearing a combat helmet, praised their performance:
“Whether in terms of strike power or mobility, this is undoubtedly the most formidable tank on the battlefield. Each enhancement in our military capability adds another layer of protection for our nation and our people.”
These tanks are part of a broader order of 108; the first batch of 38 was delivered in December 2024, marking Taiwan’s first acquisition of new tanks in 24 years. The remaining units are due by the end of 2026.
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The display comes amid heightened Chinese military activity near the island. Taiwan’s government hopes the drills will demonstrate its readiness to defend itself to both Beijing and international partners, especially the United States, its main defence ally. The timing is also significant ahead of Taiwan’s parliamentary by-election on 26 July, in which President Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party seeks to regain legislative control.
Despite the Abrams’ reputation for strength, defence analysts caution they remain vulnerable to modern threats, such as advanced drones and anti-tank weaponry lessons underscored by the Russia–Ukraine conflict. A regional military attaché commented:
“The Abrams is a powerful and adaptable asset, especially in urban and coastal defence. But Taiwan will need to integrate strong counter-drone capabilities to protect these tanks on the battlefield.”
Major General Chou Kuang‑i of the 584th Armoured Brigade stated the tanks are not yet formally commissioned but are expected to enter service later this year based on threat assessments and tactical requirements.
Singapore-based scholar Thomas Lim noted Taiwan may need to deploy these tanks on elevated terrain and employ drone countermeasures for protection:
“This isn’t unique to the Abrams; it’s a modern battlefield challenge.”
President Lai likewise emphasised the importance of combining the Abrams with drone and technology-driven tactics to align with Taiwan’s strategic defence goals.
In addition to military operations, Han Kuang drills are testing civilian resilience. On Thursday, supermarket chain PX Mart conducted evacuation drills in three locations, guiding staff and customers to basement shelters under a simulated air raid. Deputy Secretary‑General Lin Fei‑fan reiterated the importance of all‑round preparedness:
“These drills remind us that both government and civil society must be ready for all scenarios.”
China’s Ministry of Defence dismissed Taiwan’s exercises as mere posturing. However, Taiwan’s message remains unambiguous: the nation is determined to be fully prepared, both militarily and civically, in the face of escalating regional threats.
