In parallel with the start of deliveries of the first Patriot PAC-3 MSE missiles, Taiwan will move forward with the acquisition of an additional batch of 102 interceptors of this variant, thereby reinforcing one of the central pillars of its air and missile defense architecture in response to the region’s growing militarization, with China as the main driver.
According to local media, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense has reportedly confirmed its intention to expand the number of PAC-3 MSE missiles, thus consolidating a gradual transition toward the most modern version of the Patriot system. This decision comes just days after the first batches linked to previously Washington-approved contracts began to arrive.
One hundred new missiles
The focus is now not only on receiving the interceptor missiles, but also on expanding the inventory, increasing Taiwan’s defensive capacity. The planned purchase of 102 additional PAC-3 MSE missiles for a total of USD 637 million is primarily aimed at increasing defense density in a scenario in which China keeps several short- and medium-range systems deployed along the mainland coast opposite the island.
The PAC-3 MSE is the most advanced version of the Patriot system’s interceptor missile, designed to counter threats such as ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and/or aircraft. Unlike earlier variants, the MSE incorporates a dual-pulse motor, among other features, enabling greater altitude, speed, and range, while also increasing the probability of interception through direct impact—better known as “hit-to-kill.”
A process that is accelerating
The original acquisition was authorized by the United States in 2022 through the Foreign Military Sales program, which included PAC-3 missiles as well as the associated logistical support required for this type of systems integration. Subsequently, Taipei chose to specifically reinforce the MSE variant, understood as the standard best suited to the prevailing threat environment.
As the years went by, it was anticipated in 2025 that the first batches would begin to be delivered toward the end of that year—a timeline that ultimately materialized with the formal start of deliveries in January 2026. Authorities have not publicly detailed the exact number of missiles received in this first stage, nor the dates of the next deliveries.
Taiwan’s air defense
The expansion of the Patriot inventory should be read alongside other recent additions to Taiwan’s Armed Forces, such as HIMARS systems, ALTIUS loitering munitions, and naval modernization plans. Rather than isolated procurements, these purchases form part of an integrated defensive architecture aimed at increasing resilience and defense capacity in the event of a crisis scenario in the Taiwan Strait and its surroundings.
In addition, the incorporation of PAC-3 MSE missiles adds to the missiles Taipei already holds in its inventory, such as the locally developed Sky Bow III (TK III) and Strong Bow (TK IV), both of which feature short- and medium-range interception capabilities. In the case of the Strong Bow, the latest reports indicate that Taiwan has begun serial production of this new version of surface-to-air ballistic missiles, which is said to have the capability to intercept high-altitude cruise missiles and ballistic missiles at a maximum range of 70 kilometers.
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