Taiwan set to purchase upgraded artillery from United States

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Minister Yen De-fa

Minister Yen De-fa. Photo credit: Taiwanews

Taiwan on Monday said it was set to purchase upgraded self-propelled artillery from the U.S., the Island’s Defence Minister Yen De-fa confirmed during questions from lawmakers.

If Washington agrees, the proposed procurement of upgraded M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzer guns would further bolster the self-governed island state’s coastal defence capability. However, the country had already purchased M1A2 Abrams battle tanks from the U.S.

Taiwan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Yang Hai-ming, told DPA that the upgraded artillery was needed to meet his country’s defense needs and to assist in digitising its armed forces.

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The governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lawmaker, Lin Ching-Yi cited a perceived threat from China as a reason for Taiwan to continue to ramp up its defense capabilities.

Taiwan has had a separate government to China since 1949, but Beijing still sees the island country as part of its territory and discourages other nations from formally recognising Taiwan as its own country.

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