Taiwan Receives Second Batch of U.S.-Made Abrams Battle Tanks

Taiwan has officially received its second shipment of U.S.-made M1A2T Abrams main battle tanks, adding 42 more units to its growing armored fleet. The delivery is part of a larger defense agreement with the United States, which approved the sale of 108 advanced tanks to Taipei in 2019.

The latest batch of Abrams tanks arrived at the Port of Taipei in Bali District and was quickly moved to the Army Armor Training Command located in Hukou Township, Hsinchu County. From there, the tanks will be distributed across various army units that operate heavy platforms. Local media reported that the handover had been delayed due to stormy weather, but operations resumed once conditions stabilized.

After the tanks were offloaded, some were transported via flatbed trucks to the military base, covered in black sheets, and escorted by armed forces and local police along Provincial Highway No. 61 to maintain secrecy and safety.

This delivery comes after the first batch of 38 Abrams tanks arrived in December 2024. Since then, Taiwan’s armed forces have begun training personnel on the operation and maintenance of the system. A large-scale live-fire exercise using the Abrams tanks is also planned to help crews become more familiar with the vehicles in combat-like conditions.

Taiwan is acquiring these tanks to boost its ground defense capabilities amid growing concerns about a possible invasion or military pressure from China. The M1A2T Abrams, a version of the M1A2 tailored specifically for Taiwan, represents a significant upgrade to the island’s existing armored fleet.

The Abrams system, developed by General Dynamics, is one of the most powerful and advanced main battle tanks in the world. Originally introduced in the 1980s, it has seen numerous upgrades to enhance its protection, firepower, and mobility. The M1A2 version includes composite armor, a 120mm smoothbore cannon, .50 caliber and M240 machine guns, and advanced digital fire control systems.

Each tank is powered by a Honeywell AGT1500 gas turbine engine producing 1,500 horsepower, allowing it to reach speeds of over 40 miles per hour (64 kilometers per hour) and travel up to 260 miles (418 kilometers) on a full tank.

With more tanks expected to be delivered soon, Taiwan is steadily reinforcing its armored divisions, signaling to both domestic and international observers that it is serious about preparing for any potential conflict in the region.