Military

Taiwan Increases 'Wan Chien' Missile Budget Amid US Arms Delays

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By TaiwanPlus

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Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense is expanding domestic missile manufacturing following delays in foreign weapons deliveries. Next year's production budget for the indigenously developed "Wan Chien" air-to-ground cruise missile will rise from US$15.8 million to US$18.9 million. With an operational range of up to 240 kilometers, the standoff missile is designed to target enemy military installations and coastal staging areas. Defense analysts highlight that relying on domestic manufacturing capacity allows Taiwan to maintain a steady inventory while upgrading the strike capabilities of its military aircraft fleet.  

Domestic Arms Production

REPORTER:  
Taiwan is ramping up domestic missile production while it waits for the US to approve an arms package.

The defense ministry announced an increased budget for the "Wan Chien" missile from 16 million to 19 million US dollars for next year's production. The Wan Chien missiles are domestically developed air-to-ground cruise missiles that have a range of over 200 kilometers. Experts say the pausing of the US arms deal offers a chance for Taiwan to boost domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Chen Kuo-ming (DEFENSE INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE):  
Domestic production and overseas orders can easily change with the international landscape. When we face a delayed shipment from the US it’s a great opportunity to invest more in domestically developed weaponry production improving its functions.

REPORTER:  
Among delayed US weapons deliveries are two F-16V fighter jets held back in Hawaii for several weeks en route to Taiwan.