Un char Leopard 2. Photo: Michael Sohn/AP/SIPA
The geopolitical relations between Taiwan and the Chine continue to tense up. For decades, the island has faced constant pressure from Beijingwho considers it a territory to be reconquered. Washington, faithful ally of Taipeidemonstrates its unwavering support by providing strategic military equipment, most recently illustrated by the delivery of latest generation battle tanks.
The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense confirmed receipt of 38 chars Abrams M1A2marking a significant turning point in the modernization of the island's defensive capabilities. Transferred on Sunday to a training base in Hsinchuthese armored vehicles represent the first new tanks welcomed in three decades. This acquisition is part of a larger contract signed in 2019, covering 108 units for an investment exceeding $1.2 billion.
The remaining deliveries are scheduled for 2025 and 2026, gradually strengthening Taiwan's military potential. Taipei's weapons are rapidly modernizing. In addition to these tanks, the island recently received multiple rocket launchers HIMARSsimilar to those used by theUkraine. Its current fleet includes around 1000 tanks, including local models like the CM Brave Tiger and aging American M60A3 tanks.
The United States, the main supplier of military equipment, has invested several billion dollars over the past fifty years to equip Taiwan. This assistance strategy includes F-16 fighter jets and warships, while maintaining a policy of “strategic ambiguity” regarding potential military intervention.
Regional dynamics remain complex. Despite separate coexistence since 1949, Beijing maintains its territorial claim over Taiwannot excluding the use of force. Faced with this threat, Taipei has decided to significantly increase its defense budget, reaching 19 billion dollars in 2024. These military developments reflect geopolitical volatility in the Asia-Pacific region, where tensions between China and Taiwan remain a major international issue.
