Almost a year after their arrival, the first 38 new M1A2T Abrams tanks acquired by Taiwan’s Army are expected to soon enter active service. These combat vehicles were received in December 2024 as part of the purchase of a total of 108 units from the United States, aimed at strengthening the defensive capabilities of Taiwan’s Armed Forces in general, and modernizing the Army’s armored cavalry in particular.
The incorporation of the armored vehicles into the Taiwanese Army followed the signing of the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) between Taipei and Washington in December 2019. The agreement included the provision of 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks valued at US$2 billion, intended to replace the aging M60A3 tanks and CM-11 Brave Tiger tanks.
One of the most significant milestones of the program was the delivery of the first batch of 38 M1A2T Abrams tanks in mid-December last year. Of these, ten remained at the Armored Training Command, while the rest were deployed to two Armored Brigades located in Linkou District, New Taipei, and Hukou Township, Hsinchu County, to help defend the northern part of the island.
In the following months, the United States completed delivery of the second batch of M1A2T Abrams tanks, which included 42 units. These arrived in late July this year during a large-scale operation in Hsinchu County. With this shipment, Taiwan’s Army came to possess 80 main battle tanks. According to the delivery schedule, the third and final batch, consisting of 28 vehicles, is scheduled for next year and will complete the agreement.
It is relevant to note that this acquisition marks Taiwan’s first purchase of new tanks in more than three decades. Currently, its armored forces operate about 1,000 tanks, including the locally built CM-11 Brave Tiger and the U.S.-origin M60A3. Despite undergoing modernization programs, both past and ongoing, these models have accumulated decades of service, underscoring the need to introduce more modern units.
Commissioning of Taiwan’s Abrams tanks:
As described, alongside the reception of the tanks, Taiwanese crews have also been progressing through transition courses to operate the new platform. In recent weeks, reports have highlighted these advancements, paving the way for the first tanks to formally enter service, reportedly with the 584th Brigade of the Army’s 6th Corps.
A demonstration reflecting this progress took place in July, showcasing the new M1A2T Abrams’ firing capabilities, both on the move and from static positions.
Photos: Taiwan Ministry of Defense
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