Taiwan Prepares to Receive First M1A2T Abrams Tanks Amid Rising Tensions with China
According to Taiwanese media citing an anonymous source, the first batch of M1A2T Abrams tanks is expected to arrive in Taiwan by mid-December, although logistical issues may cause slight delays. This delivery awaited for several years, comes amid heightened tensions and China’s threats of “resolute countermeasures” against U.S. arms sales to Taipei. These tanks, specifically adapted to meet the requirements of Taiwan’s military, arrive as the security situation in the Taiwan Strait remains unstable.
The M1A2T tanks feature a jungle green camouflage tailored to the island’s environmental conditions, differing from the desert camouflage of Abrams tanks used by the United States and other nations. Dozens of Taiwanese instructors who recently returned from training in the U.S. are preparing the military to integrate these tanks. A second phase of hands-on training, scheduled for February 2025 after the Lunar New Year, will include live-fire exercises targeting both stationary and moving objectives.
The tanks will be deployed gradually, with 38 units expected by the end of 2024, followed by 42 in 2025 and an additional 28 in 2026. Approved by the United States in 2019, this acquisition aims to modernize Taiwan’s military capabilities, particularly to strengthen coastal defenses in the north of the island and counter potential threats from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The M1A2T is a modified version of the M1A2 SEP V2 and includes specific upgrades for Taiwan. Armed with a 120mm M256 smoothbore cannon, these tanks can penetrate 850mm of armor while resisting projectiles from most enemy main battle tanks. They provide improved firepower and protection compared to older models like the M60A3 Patton and CM-11 Brave Tiger still in service. These enhanced capabilities are considered critical for countering a possible ground invasion, especially given their ability to fire from elevated positions.
The tanks’ arrival coincides with growing regional tensions. China has increased its military activities near Taiwan, conducting exercises such as “Joint Sword-2024A” in May and “Joint Sword-2024B” in October, simulating the encirclement and invasion of the island. Additional drills are anticipated, further raising concerns. Concurrently, Beijing has strongly criticized a recent U.S. military aid package for Taiwan worth $385 million, which includes spare parts for F-16 aircraft and advanced radars. China views these sales as a violation of its sovereignty and the “One China” principle, accusing Washington of turning Taiwan into a potential flashpoint for conflict.
As the first M1A2T Abrams tanks prepare to join Taiwan’s military, their delivery underscores the United States’ commitment to supporting the island’s defense. While the modernization of Taiwan’s military is a strategic step forward, it also intensifies regional tensions, presenting increasingly complex geopolitical challenges.