Image source: topwar.ru
Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen revealed the order of delivery of American tanks to the local army, according to which the first vehicles should be shipped next year.
The contract signed in 2019 with the United States provides for the purchase of a total of 108 Abrams MBT (designated as M1A2T) in the amount of $2 billion. According to local media, the first 38 tanks will be transferred in 2024, the next 42 – in 2025 and the last 28 units – in 2026.
In preparation for the arrival of the new armored vehicles, an undisclosed number of Taiwanese crews have been selected for courses in the United States, who will then take on the role of instructors and train their colleagues in the operation and maintenance of the M1A2T Abrams.
Taiwan's acquisition of American tanks is seen as a strategic step to strengthen the country's defense capability in the face of growing threats from China. Abrams is expected to support operations along the northern coast, where the PLA landing is expected.
According to the Taiwanese command, American-made tanks are best suited for their armored forces due to their versatility and adaptation to the battlefield.
- it is said in the EurAsian Times edition.
