First batch of ATACMS delivered to Taiwan

The United States has delivered the first batch of ATACMS tactical missiles to Taiwan. The CNA news agency of the Republic of China reported that the exact number of missiles delivered was not disclosed. In October 2020, the US Department of State approved supplying 11 M142 HIMARS missile systems and 64 M57 ATACMS tactical missiles to the Republic of China.

The deal also includes other related equipment and services. The total value of the order could be up to £436 million. In May 2023, the Republic's Ministry of National Defense announced the purchase of 18 additional HIMARS.

M142 HIMARS and ATACMS missiles.

Photo: Mariusz Burcz

The reason for this purchase was problems with procuring 155-mm M-109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzers from the United States. This brings the total number of ordered HIMARS systems to 29 units. In addition, the number of ordered ATACMS increased to 84 units, and the number of rocket launchers to 864 units.

The delivery of the first batch of HIMARS to the Army of the Republic of China was scheduled to begin in 2024, and the second batch in 2026. Taiwan has already confirmed that the first batch of 11 HIMARS MLRS purchased from the United States was delivered in October.

The first M142 HIMARS multiple rocket launchers in Taiwan. October 2024.

Photo credits: imgur.com

The HIMARS with ATACMS will be part of the 58th Artillery Command of the 10th Army Corps, stationed in Taichung.

The long-range ATACMS missiles will allow the military of the Republic of China to counter a potential invasion of Beijing, as they provide the ability to hit targets in the territory of the People's Republic of China.