Taiwan has confirmed plans for its first live HIMARS test launch, scheduled for May 12 in Pingtung County. The military will conduct the exercise at Jiupeng base, a major testing ground in southern Taiwan. Test firing will occur between 8 a.m. and noon, then resume from 1:30 to 5 p.m. The military has capped the launch altitude at 20,000 feet. Officials expect the HIMARS test launch to validate both reliability and precision.
In April, the military rehearsed fire coordination using the HIMARS system during the Han Kuang 41 simulation exercise. This rehearsal ensured joint fire systems worked seamlessly across Taiwan’s defense branches. Commanders used the simulation to confirm real-time communication between missile units and operational leaders. These preparations laid the foundation for next week’s live HIMARS test launch. Taiwan’s military says it now feels confident in its ability to respond swiftly to threats.
Taiwan initially ordered 11 HIMARS systems from the United States several years ago. However, the defense ministry later expanded the deal by canceling an order for 40 Paladin M109A6 howitzers. In their place, Taiwan secured an additional 18 HIMARS units and 84 ATACMS missiles. The first batch, including 11 launchers and two training simulators, arrived last year. Troops assigned the systems to the 58th Artillery Command, a key long-range strike division.
In January 2025, Taiwan received 16 ATACMS missiles, significantly boosting its deterrence posture. Military leaders expect the remaining 48 missiles to arrive before the end of March. The ATACMS, made by Lockheed Martin, delivers a 500-pound blast warhead at ranges up to 300 kilometers. This range allows Taiwan to cover critical areas without repositioning launchers frequently. Defense officials believe these systems will give Taiwan better flexibility under pressure.
As tensions increase in the Indo-Pacific region, Taiwan continues to strengthen its self-defense capabilities. The HIMARS test launch sends a signal of Taiwan’s readiness and technological progress. Military leaders stress the importance of testing advanced systems under real conditions. Taiwan’s defense strategy now emphasizes rapid, coordinated response through upgraded missile forces. With this test, Taiwan edges closer to a fully modernized strike network.
