The Taiwanese military is gearing up for its “largest delivery” of domestically-made missile systems in 2024, according to a report by Taipei Times.
The move comes as China continues to assert its presence around the island nation, which many analysts claim is a preparation for a future invasion.
According to defense sources, Taiwan’s indigenous missiles will reach their peak delivery next year, with more than 1,000 to be handed over to the military.
This coincides with the completion of the country’s Wan Chien air-to-ground missile system in 2024.
The Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology will reportedly facilitate the transfer as part of the Sea-Air Combat Power Improvement Plan.
Increased Defense Budget
Next year’s delivery of over a thousand missiles to the Taiwanese armed forces will be made possible by an increase in Taipei’s defense budget.
The combat improvement plan has a budget of 60.9 billion New Taiwan dollars ($1.9 billion) this year — the largest in five years.
In 2022, the Taiwanese government allocated 46.3 billion New Taiwan dollars ($1.4 billion), while 47.4 billion New Taiwan dollars ($1.5 billion) are earmarked for next year.
The budget covers missile systems, including the Wan Chien and other mobile coastal defense cruise missiles.
Once delivery is complete, the military is expected to adjust its air defenses, retiring its old systems to prepare for more sophisticated threats.
US Assistance
Apart from its indigenous missiles, Taiwan has received hundreds of missiles through purchases or donations from international allies.
In May this year, the country received its first batch of Stinger air defense missiles from the US as part of a $500-million military aid package.
The weapons would be used against low-flying Chinese aircraft in the event of an invasion.
Taipei will also take delivery of 200 US-made Javelin anti-tank missiles later this year.