Taiwan conducts first HIMARS missile system live-fire exercise
The main objective of the exercise was to practice a counterattack scenario against a potential amphibious assault by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. Artillery and missile units of Taiwan practiced rapid deployment and operation of the HIMARS system to strike advancing enemy forces.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense reported that the tests were successful. The exercise was conducted to maintain a high level of combat readiness amid continued tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Officials stressed that the maneuvers were purely defensive and not intended to provoke.
The HIMARS rocket systems were supplied to Taiwan under previously signed military cooperation contracts with the United States. The system enables high-precision strikes at long distances and offers mobility due to its wheeled platform.
Military experts note that the use of HIMARS in Taiwan demonstrates the island’s growing defensive capabilities in the face of potential threats from China. However, analysts point out that such actions could provoke a negative reaction from Beijing, which considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory.
Conducting exercises with modern missile systems is viewed as a signal of Taiwan’s readiness to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The island government has repeatedly stated its intention to strengthen its defense, including through the purchase of modern weaponry from international partners.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that the missile launches were carried out in strict compliance with safety protocols. Local authorities had previously warned residents about possible sound effects near the test range.
The “Thunder” exercises are expected to continue in the coming weeks with the involvement of other branches of Taiwan’s armed forces. The focus will be on coordinated operations of ground, naval, and air units under simulated conflict conditions.
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