Taiwan has marked a significant milestone in its defense capabilities with the receipt of its first batch of MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) from the United States. While the specific number of missiles delivered has not been disclosed, local media outlet CNA, citing a source within the Taiwanese military, confirmed the delivery. Notably, this batch includes the longest-range variant of the ATACMS, which is capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers (or 186 miles) away, thus extending Taiwan’s operational reach to areas within the Chinese mainland.
This delivery is part of a broader package that includes the initial shipment of 11 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), as announced by Taiwan’s defense ministry last week. The HIMARS systems, along with the ATACMS, are set to enhance the firepower of the Taiwanese military significantly.
The procurement of these advanced weapon systems can be traced back to October 2020, when the Trump administration approved the sale of 29 HIMARS and 64 ATACMS to Taiwan. The rocket artillery units have been assigned to the 58th Artillery Command of the 10th Army Corps, located in Taichung, where Taiwanese soldiers are currently undergoing training to operate these sophisticated systems.
The ATACMS acts as one of the two munitions types that can be launched from the HIMARS system, the other being the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), which has a range of approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles). The addition of the ATACMS provides Taiwan with enhanced long-range strike capabilities at a critical juncture in regional security.
Furthermore, this latest delivery follows the recent approval by the US for the sale of National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems and long-range radar systems to Taiwan, valued at around $1.94 billion. This comprehensive military support aligns with Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its defense capabilities amid increasing tensions in the region. Looking ahead, Taiwan is also set to receive 66 F-16V fighter jets, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026, further bolstering its aerial defense capabilities.
