Taiwan is introducing the US-supplied HIMARS rocket system during the Han Kuang 41 military exercises. This will be the first time Taiwan includes HIMARS in Han Kuang drills. The live-fire exercises start Wednesday and will run day and night until July 18.
The Han Kuang exercises involve 22,000 reservists who will support the regular forces, according to PTS News. The Army’s Sixth Corps will conduct a full call-up of the 206th Brigade. About 2,000 soldiers will take part in this new 10-day training model. By including HIMARS in Han Kuang drills, Taiwan’s military plans to test the rocket system’s long-range strike capabilities.
On July 4, the Army’s 58th Artillery Command held a ceremony to mark the formation of the HIMARS missile unit. Defense Minister Wellington Koo reviewed the troops during the event. HIMARS, or High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, is a lightweight and wheeled multiple rocket launcher. It is known for its precision strikes and mobility on the battlefield.
Experts say that HIMARS in Han Kuang drills will complement Taiwan’s domestically developed Thunderbolt-2000 rocket system. This combination creates a “high-low mix” of weapons. Together, they provide a stronger deterrent against the Chinese military. Su Tzu-yun, a research fellow at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, explains that the Thunderbolt-2000 is designed to strike broad area targets. These include Chinese fleets attempting landings or waves of assault boats.
Meanwhile, HIMARS offers more precise strikes. It can support cross-area attacks and target enemy ground forces or ports with accuracy. This makes HIMARS a vital addition to Taiwan’s defense forces. The Han Kuang exercises are critical for testing Taiwan’s rapid response capabilities in case of a Chinese invasion.
By integrating HIMARS in Han Kuang drills, Taiwan not only strengthens its firepower but also improves its combat readiness. The military gains valuable experience operating this advanced rocket system alongside its existing weapons. This development signals Taiwan’s strong commitment to enhancing its defense in the face of increasing regional threats.
Overall, the introduction of HIMARS in Han Kuang drills represents a significant step forward for Taiwan’s military capabilities. It highlights the country’s focus on combining modern technology with its existing defense systems. As tensions continue in the region, these exercises serve as a crucial measure to prepare for any potential conflict.
