Taiwan plans to purchase four additional Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE) systems and up to 500 missiles to strengthen its air defense network. The move comes amid an increasing number of missile sites established along China’s east coast.
According to a defense official, the acquisition will be funded through a special defense budget of approximately NT$1 trillion (US$32.88 billion). The package is expected to include launchers, missiles, and an advanced lower-tier air and missile defense radar system.
The first batch of PAC-3 MSE systems is scheduled for delivery by the end of the year, with deployment planned in Hualien and Taitung counties. The PAC-3 MSE offers a significantly improved engagement altitude—ranging between 45km and 60km—compared to the base model’s 24km, enhancing Taiwan’s ability to intercept ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as advanced aircraft.
This upgrade will complement Taiwan’s existing Sky Bow III and Sky Bow IV missile systems, together forming a comprehensive multi-tier defense network capable of countering threats at varying altitudes.
Taiwan to Acquire More Patriot Missiles Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Date:
Picture Credit: www.commons.wikimedia.org