Taiwan to acquire additional 28 HIMARS rocket launch systems
Taiwan to Strengthen Defense with New HIMARS and NASAMS Systems
Taiwan is set to bolster its defense capabilities with the acquisition of new High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS). According to recent reports, Taiwan plans to purchase 28 more HIMARS units and 9 additional NASAMS sets from the United States.
The first delivery of the new HIMARS units is expected by the end of 2025, with subsequent deliveries likely into 2026. Once these purchases are completed and delivered, Taiwan would have a total of 57 sets of HIMARS. Each HIMARS launch pod can carry six Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems, enabling the system to strike targets 70 to 85km away.
Taiwan's military also plans to purchase 339 missiles of various types along with the nine additional NASAMS. The NASAMS, if equipped with the extended range version of the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile, would have a range of 50km. The first set of three NASAMS is expected to be delivered by the end of this year, with the rest following in a similar timeframe, although the exact delivery timeline is not yet precise.
The NASAMS would be deployed near the capital to bolster its air defense. To support these acquisitions, Lockheed Martin has increased production capacity for HIMARS launchers, doubling to 96 units annually as of late 2024, which aligns with Taiwan’s expected deliveries starting late 2025 and continuing thereafter.
These acquisitions are part of Taiwan’s broader effort to strengthen its precision strike and air defense capabilities amid regional security concerns. The Army Command Headquarters has already tested the HIMARS system, and the military plans to increase the number of MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) purchased from 64 to 84.
Upon approval by the Executive Yuan, the military would deliver the special act for military procurements to the legislature for review. The draft special budget act for military procurements would be delivered to the legislature after the special act for military procurements is passed.
In summary, Taiwan’s new HIMARS units and NASAMS sets are expected to bolster the country's defense capabilities, providing improved precision strike and air defense capabilities. The first deliveries are set to begin by the end of 2025, with ongoing deployments continuing into 2026.
The acquisition of advanced technology like the HIMARS and NASAMS systems by Taiwan emphasizes its commitment to the field of sports, as these systems can be compared to the precision and speed required in sports. With the expected delivery of new HIMARS units and NASAMS sets, Taiwan's military will have the ability to strike targets effectively, just as a player aims accurately in a game of sports.
