Taiwan's Military Welcomes M1A2T Abrams Tanks Into Service
Taiwan’s new M1A2T tanks enter service, but with cheap drones now capable of taking out costly armor, how can Taiwan make sure it’s getting the most out of its latest weapons?
Taiwan Unveils M1A2T Abrams Tanks: Balancing Power and Drone Threats
REPORTER:
Here in Hsinchu, the country’s first battalion of Abrams tanks is officially entering service. These US-made tanks are some of the most powerful in the world and are expected to give the Army a major boost in firepower and mobility.
The M1A2T Abrams are replacing Taiwan’s older fleet of CM11 tanks and mark a significant improvement in Taiwan’s arsenal.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te was there to see the new military hardware presented.
The commission of this new unit presents an entirely new challenge. And it also showcases an important milestone on the military’s path toward new training, new thinking, new equipment and new technology.
REPORTER:
Experts agree that introducing new tanks comes with new challenges.
Abrams crews require a lot of training. The vehicles themselves are very expensive. And the War in Ukraine shows that even the most advanced tanks can be taken out by cheap drones.
You need to pair them with more counter-drone systems, like armored vehicles equipped with anti-drone capabilities following the tank convoys. That’s how these armored units stand a better chance of surviving on future battlefields.
REPORTER:
Some of Taiwan’s fleet of Abrams Tanks carried out live-fire exercises in July, giving the public a chance to see what its 120 millimeter cannon can do.
When paired with a powerful engine, and dense modern armor, it's a weapon system the military hopes will give it the edge.
Taiwan is expected to receive the final batch of M1A2T tanks in early 2026, bringing the total number to over 100. For now, the military says all of them will be deployed in northern Taiwan.
