Taiwan’s Armed Forces received the last batch of 28 M1A2T Abrams tanks (corresponding to M1A2 SEPv3 level, except for export restrictions), meaning completion of delivery of all 108 ordered combat vehicles.
Transport of tanks, which were densely covered with tarpaulin, from the port was recorded yesterday, April 27 at night. However, this didn’t become a secret for local outlets, including Focus Taiwan. Ultimately, this makes it possible to assess the time the U.S. needed to fulfill this order.
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Defense Express recalls that Taiwan ordered 108 M1A2T tanks, 14 M88A2 armored recovery vehicles, as well as 16 M1070A1 tractors with trailers, as well as other additional equipment and services for $1.28 billion in 2019. Thus, the cost of one conventional Abrams in comprehensive delivery was more than a democratic $11.85 million.
Delivery of the first two vehicles occurred in 2022, but a significant first batch of 38 vehicles only in December 2024, 5 years after contract signing. Overall delivery completion took about 7 years from deal conclusion.
Overall, it’s planned that thanks to new Abrams, it will be possible to withdraw from service a certain part of 450 CM-11 Brave Tiger units, hybrid of M60 chassis and turret from M48 Patton. In particular, vehicles are transferred to 584th Armored Brigade, which has them in armament.
At the same time, about 200 American late-70s M60A3s will remain in service even after 2030. Such tank armada is needed by Taiwan for essentially anti-landing defense, destroying China’s light amphibious vehicles.
That’s precisely why Taiwan quite long relied on tanks with 105mm guns. However, Abrams purchase with 120mm gun and weight over 63 tons caused Taiwanese criticism. Especially since tank survivability on the modern battlefield, due to total dronization, is quite a debatable question.
At the same time, one should consider that Taiwan has indeed very carefully prepared for possible landing operation by mainland China throughout its separate existence. Therefore, military can quite assess main risks and challenges. Moreover, units with Abrams should be deployed in the island’s north to defend Taipei.
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