Overview

• Four M1A2T Abrams tanks conducted live-fire tests in Hsinchu County during the second day of the 10-day Han Kuang exercises, marking Taiwan’s first display of U.S.-sourced main battle tanks in 24 years.
• Military officials said the Abrams remain uncommissioned and that the July 10 test firing was not part of the formal drill scenarios.
• President Lai Ching-te praised the tanks’ mobility and strike capability, saying they add “an extra layer of security” for the nation.
• Analysts warn that heavy armor is vulnerable to drones based on lessons from the Ukraine war, prompting Taiwan to integrate counter-drone tactics into its training.
• China’s defense ministry dismissed the exercises as a “bluff” even as Taiwan runs civilian evacuation drills and prepares for a July 26 recall parliamentary vote.