Taiwan unveils new wheeled tank for first time in response to growing PLA capabilities
Quick Look
- Taiwan has for the first time publicly demonstrated a new 8x8 wheeled tank with a 105mm gun, developed in response to China's growing military capabilities.
- During an exercise in the south of the island, the crew hit a moving target at a distance of 1.2 km, but recorded the misfire of one of the shells.
- The vehicle can use ammunition from M60A3 tanks and new ammunition.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Taiwan is developing new military systems in response to the threat of a potential amphibious invasion from China, which is building up its military capabilities near the island.
The Taiwan Army has publicly shown its new wheeled tank for the first time. The vehicle was a response to the growing capabilities of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA), writes TWZ.
The vehicle with an 8x8 wheel arrangement received a rotating turret with a 105 mm caliber cannon. The new product was used during demonstration shooting in southern Taiwan. The crew hit a moving target at a distance of 1.2 kilometers. The fighters also practiced shooting while moving and using a machine gun on a simulated landing vehicle.
“The demonstration provided a glimpse of the vehicle that Taiwan is developing taking into account the country’s characteristics and combat requirements, including a potential amphibious invasion by Chinese troops,” the publication writes.
Also during the shooting, a malfunction of the gun was recorded. One of the shells did not work. The crew was able to hit the target only after reloading. A representative of the manufacturer noted that an investigation into the misfire would be conducted. The Wheeled Tank can use existing M60A3 tank rounds and new ammunition.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Taiwan will continue testing the new wheeled tank with a view to introducing it into service in the coming years.
Likely · Within months
The manufacturer will conduct an investigation into the cause of the projectile misfire during the demonstration.
Very likely · Within days
Open Questions
- When is it planned to put the new wheeled tank into service?
- What are the exact tactical and technical characteristics of the machine?
- Does Taiwan plan to export this equipment?
