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This Is Taiwan’s New 105mm 8×8 Mobile Gun System

The second batch of 18 US-made M142 HIMARS multiple rocket launchers is scheduled to arrive in Taiwan before the end of 2026, ahead of the original delivery timeline. The systems will equip the Army's 8th Army Corps 43rd Artillery Command, responsible for southern defense. This batch includes 20 ATACMS tactical missiles and 864 precision-guided rockets. Army Commander General Lu Kun-shih recently inspected the unit to verify readiness. The first batch of 11 systems with 64 ATACMS is already operational with the 10th Army Corps 58th Artillery Command. Total procurement covers 111 systems through 2030.

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  • ✓ Second batch of 18 HIMARS systems scheduled to arrive in Taiwan by end of 2026.
  • ✓ Systems will equip the 8th Army Corps 43rd Artillery Command responsible for southern defense.
  • ✓ Batch includes 20 ATACMS tactical missiles and 864 precision-guided rockets.
  • ✓ First batch of 11 HIMARS systems with 64 ATACMS already operational with 10th Army Corps 58th Artillery Command.
🛡️ Source Corroboration: 38 independent reporting domains (92% confidence) ⏱ Read time: ~2 min

What changed

Second batch of 18 HIMARS systems confirmed for delivery by end of 2026 to 8th Army Corps 43rd Artillery Command, with specific missile and rocket quantities disclosed.

Live updates

  1. Second HIMARS batch of 18 systems arriving by year-end for southern Taiwan command

    The second batch of 18 US-made M142 HIMARS multiple rocket launchers is scheduled to arrive in Taiwan before the end of 2026, ahead of the original delivery timeline. The systems will equip the Army's 8th Army Corps 43rd Artillery Command, responsible for southern defense. This batch includes 20 ATACMS tactical missiles and 864 precision-guided rockets. Army Commander General Lu Kun-shih recently inspected the unit to verify readiness. The first batch of 11 systems with 64 ATACMS is already operational with the 10th Army Corps 58th Artillery Command. Total procurement covers 111 systems through 2030.

    Why it matters

    Taiwan is accelerating its long-range precision strike capability across all operational zones. The HIMARS systems provide high mobility and rapid relocation, improving survivability against counter-battery fire compared to fixed artillery positions. Deployment spans northern, central, southern commands and Penghu, creating a comprehensive strike network. The 43rd Artillery Command has completed pre-deployment preparations and personnel training in the United States.

    What is confirmed

    • Second batch of 18 HIMARS systems scheduled to arrive in Taiwan by end of 2026.
    • Systems will equip the 8th Army Corps 43rd Artillery Command responsible for southern defense.
    • Batch includes 20 ATACMS tactical missiles and 864 precision-guided rockets.
    • First batch of 11 HIMARS systems with 64 ATACMS already operational with 10th Army Corps 58th Artillery Command.
    • Total procurement covers 111 HIMARS systems to be deployed through 2030.
    • Army Commander General Lu Kun-shih inspected 43rd Artillery Command to verify readiness.

    What to watch next

    • Third batch delivery timeline and allocation to 21st Artillery Command and Penghu
    • Operational integration of HIMARS with existing artillery and air defense networks
    • ATACMS and precision rocket expenditure rates during training and exercises
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. en.wikipedia.org — M109 howitzer - Wikipedia
    2. www.armyrecognition.com — Taiwan's Growing F-16 Block 70 Fleet Signals Shift Toward More Advanced and Networked Air Defense Operations.
    3. www.i-media.tw — 第二批18套海馬士年底前抵台 陸軍八軍團43砲指部接裝 | i-media 愛傳...
    4. life.tw — 第二批18套海馬士年底前抵台 陸軍八軍團43砲指部接裝
    5. orientaldaily.on.cc — 美年底前向台全數交付多管火箭 - 東方日報
    confidence 92%

  2. Taiwan Defense Minister Denies US Proposal for Used Artillery Upgrades

    Defense Minister Wellington Koo has refuted reports that the US proposed replacing 60 new M109A7 self-propelled howitzers with upgraded M109A6 models due to production shortages. Koo stated the procurement project has signed price letters and remains on schedule. This denial follows a combat readiness exercise accident where an aging M109A5 howitzer caught fire in the driver cabin, causing second-degree burns to one servicemember. Taiwan is currently pushing for full artillery motorization, aiming to replace towed 105mm and 155mm guns and transition 81mm and 120mm mortars to vehicle-mounted systems.

    Why it matters

    Taiwan is modernizing its forces to prioritize mobility and coastal defense to counter potential threats. The military relies on a fleet of US-made artillery from the 1980s and 1990s that requires urgent replacement. The M109A7 acquisition is a key component of this transition to mobile firepower.

    What is confirmed

    • Defense Minister Wellington Koo stated that the M109A7 procurement project has signed price letters and is proceeding according to plan.
    • An M109A5 self-propelled howitzer caught fire in the driver cabin during combat readiness exercises, causing second-degree burns to one soldier.
    • Taiwan plans to procure 60 M109A7 self-propelled howitzers from the United States.
    • Taiwan intends to phase out towed 105mm and 155mm howitzers and move 81mm and 120mm mortars to vehicle-mounted platforms.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The US proposed modifying the M109A7 order to upgraded M109A6 models with additional costs for Taiwan due to insufficient production capacity.
    • The M109A5 fire was caused by ammunition self-combustion.

    What to watch next

    • Official investigation results into the M109A5 driver cabin fire
    • Confirmation of the first M109A7 delivery date
    • Legislative updates on the 80.6 billion NTD procurement budget
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.military.com — The Army Wants Nearly 15,000 New Rifles. The Bigger Story Is Innovation
    2. www.taiwanplus.com — Military Reports Fire on Mobile Artillery Weapon System
    3. orientaldaily.on.cc — 台擬購自走炮 傳美倡買二手 - 東方 ... - 東方日報
    4. sf.epochtimes.com — 台灣炮兵面臨全面機動化 60輛M109A7只是起點 800門牽引炮誰來換 從烏...
    5. news.cts.com.tw — 傳自走砲軍購美提議改二手升級案 顧立雄：與事實不符
    6. www.chinatimes.com — 美方傳要求台灣改買二手自走砲？顧立雄正面回應了 - 政治
    confidence 90%

  3. Taiwan Restructures Forces as M109A7 Procurement Faces Hurdle

    Taiwan is restructuring its armed forces capabilities to focus on artillery, drones, coastal defense, and air defense. As part of these ongoing military modernization efforts, Taiwan previously developed a new 105mm 8x8 mobile gun system mounted on an armored vehicle to enhance mobility, survivability, and battlefield repositioning. Meanwhile, reports emerged that the United States Army project management team proposed a used upgrade plan for a major procurement of 60 M109A7 self-propelled howitzers. Defense Minister Wellington Koo refuted these claims regarding the 80.6 billion NTD procurement program, which has an acquisition schedule spanning from 2026 to 2032 with delivery expected to begin in 2030.

    Why it matters

    Taiwan faces mounting pressure to modernize its defense capabilities and counter potential threats across the Taiwan Strait. The island previously approved special budget legislation to fund asymmetrical combat capabilities and heavy artillery systems. Integrating vehicle-mounted platforms and rapid repositioning exercises helps the military adapt to evolving strategic demands.

    What is confirmed

    • Taiwan is restructuring its armed forces capabilities focusing on artillery, drones, coastal defense, and air defense.
    • The Legislative Yuan passed the Special条例 for Safeguarding National Security and Strengthening Asymmetric Warfare Capabilities in May.
    • Defense Minister Wellington Koo refuted rumors regarding changes to the M109A7 self-propelled howitzer procurement program.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The US Army project management team allegedly proposed a used upgrade plan instead of new vehicles for the 60 M109A7 self-propelled howitzers.

    What to watch next

    • Official confirmation of delivery timelines for the M109A7 self-propelled howitzer procurement
    • Further announcements on the deployment of Taiwan's 105mm 8x8 mobile gun system
    • Results from ongoing military exercises evaluating artillery endurance and rapid relocation
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. tsm.schar.gmu.edu — Taiwan Security Monitor - Taiwan Security Monitor
    2. thedefensepost.com — Taiwan to Expand Artillery and Drone Units in Military Overhaul
    3. www.armyrecognition.com — Taiwan Tests M1A2T Abrams for Rapid Battlefield Repositioning ...
    4. www.ftnn.com.tw — 800億M109A7自走砲軍購案傳生變？美方竟提「二手升級案」 顧立雄駁斥...
    5. tw.news.yahoo.com — 【內幕】逾800億M109A7自走砲軍購案 美方竟改提「二手升級案」遭我陸...
    6. adma.mnd.gov.tw — 下載專區-全動署 - All-out Defense Mobilization
    confidence 80%

  4. Taiwan Unveils 105mm 8x8 Mobile Gun System

    Taiwan has developed a new 105mm 8x8 mobile gun system, part of its artillery modernization efforts to counter potential Chinese invasion. The system is mounted on an 8x8 armored vehicle, enhancing mobility and survivability. This development aligns with Taiwan's strategy to transition to vehicle-mounted artillery platforms.

    Why it matters

    Taiwan's military modernization efforts are focused on enhancing its defensive capabilities against potential threats from China. The development of the 105mm 8x8 mobile gun system is part of this effort, which also includes the acquisition of M109A7 howitzers and other advanced military equipment.

    What is confirmed

    • The Piranha V is a multi-role armoured fighting vehicle designed by General Dynamics European Land Systems - Mowag GmbH.
    • The M1A2T Abrams tanks will participate in a major Taiwan military exercise.
    • The US Army is replacing its Howitzer cannon with a new mobile tactical cannon.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Ray-Ting 2000 Artillery Multiple Launch Rocket System is being developed for the ROC Army.

    What to watch next

    • Delivery of 60 M109A7 howitzers around 2030
    • Taiwan's military exercise with M1A2T tanks
    • Series production of the Cheetah 105mm 8x8 armored fighting vehicle
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. en.wikipedia.org — Mowag Piranha V - Wikipedia
    2. focustaiwan.tw — Army to open Chengkungling base to public Oct. 24 - Focus Taiwan
    3. focustaiwan.tw — M1A2T tanks to roll into Taiwan's Lien Yung military drill ...
    4. www.slashgear.com — The US Army's First Mobile Tactical Cannon Replacing The ...
    5. en.wikipedia.org — M101 howitzer - Wikipedia
    6. www.ncsist.org.tw — Ray-Ting 2000 Artillery Multiple Launch Rocket System
    confidence 80%

  5. Taiwan Shifts to Mobile Artillery to Counter Drones

    Taiwan plans to transition all next-generation artillery to vehicle-mounted platforms to defend against attack drones and rapid counter-battery strikes. This strategic shift places vehicle mobility, ammunition logistics, and the scheduled arrival of 60 M109A7 howitzers around 2030 at the core of Taiwan's defense preparations against a potential Chinese invasion. These mobile systems complement ongoing military modernizations, which recently included live-fire demonstrations of the domestically developed Cheetah 105mm 8x8 armored fighting vehicle in Tainan ahead of scheduled series production and the delivery of the first two F-16V Block 70 fighter jets.

    Why it matters

    Taiwan faces continuous security pressures from China, prompting a heavy emphasis on rapid repositioning and mobile defense systems to avoid destruction from incoming aerial strikes. Shifting away from towed artillery protects units from drone reconnaissance and swift retaliatory fire. The modernization strategy runs parallel to major foreign arms acquisitions and domestic armored vehicle manufacturing programs.

    What is confirmed

    • Taiwan plans to make all next-generation artillery vehicle-mounted to counter attack drones and rapid counter-battery strikes.
    • Sixty M109A7 howitzers are expected to arrive in Taiwan around 2030.
    • Taiwan received the first two F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from a batch of 66 aircraft ordered in 2019.
    • The Ministry of National Defense demonstrated the Cheetah 105mm 8x8 armored fighting vehicle during live-fire exercises in Tainan.

    What to watch next

    • The official start of series production for the Cheetah 105mm 8x8 armored fighting vehicle.
    • Timelines for the delivery of the 60 M109A7 howitzers ahead of 2030.
    • Further operational deployments of Taiwan's newly arrived F-16V Block 70 fighter jets.
    Sources used for this update (9)
    1. en.wikipedia.org — List of equipment of the Republic of China Army - Wikipedia
    2. thegunbulletin.com — New Guns! – thegunbulletin
    3. thegunbulletin.com — FN Wins U.S. Army Development Contract For The Precision ...
    4. www.taiwanplus.com — What's Up Taiwan – TaiwanPlus
    5. interestingengineering.com — US moves anti-ship missiles closer to Taiwan in major Japan ...
    6. dailysecurityreview.com — University Student’s TETRA Replay Attack Halts Taiwan Bullet ...
    7. focustaiwan.tw — National Day fireworks light up Taitung night sky - Focus Taiwan
    8. thediplomat.com — Missing the Forest for the Trees in Taiwan’s Defense ...
    9. defencesecurityasia.com — Taiwan Plans Mobile Artillery Shift to Counter Drones, Bolster China Invasion Defence
    confidence 100%

  6. Taiwan Receives First Two F-16V Fighters

    Taiwan received the first two F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from a batch of 66 aircraft ordered in 2019. The delivery follows months of delays and aims to bolster defenses against China. This arrival supplements Taiwan's broader military modernization efforts, which also feature domestically developed systems like the Cheetah 105mm 8x8 armored fighting vehicle. The Ministry of National Defense recently demonstrated the Cheetah platform during live-fire exercises in Tainan ahead of scheduled series production.

    Why it matters

    The delivery of the F-16V fighter jets strengthens Taiwan's aerial defense capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions. Concurrently, Taiwan is advancing its ground combat vehicles, highlighted by the recent public debut and live-fire tests of the Cheetah 105mm mobile gun system. Together, these acquisitions reflect a multi-domain upgrade of Taiwan's armed forces.

    What is confirmed

    • The first two F-16V Block 70 fighter jets ordered in 2019 arrived in Taiwan after months of delays.
    • Taiwan ordered a batch of 66 new F-16V Block 70 fighter jets in 2019.
    • Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense publicly debuted the Cheetah 105mm 8x8 armoured fighting vehicle on September 23, 2026.
    • Series production of 178 units for the Cheetah is scheduled to begin in 2027.

    What to watch next

    • Delivery schedule for the remaining 64 F-16V Block 70 fighter jets
    • Operational evaluation completion and series production kickoff for the Cheetah 105mm vehicle in 2027
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.twz.com — Taiwan - The War Zone
    2. www.defensenews.com — Taiwan’s first two F-16V fighter jets arrive to bolster ...
    confidence 100%

  7. Taiwan Unveils Cheetah Mobile Gun System in Live-Fire Trials

    Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense publicly debuted the Cheetah 105mm 8x8 armoured fighting vehicle on September 23, 2026. During live-fire demonstrations at an Army training center in Tainan, the domestically developed vehicle engaged stationary and moving targets from both fixed and mobile positions. The Cheetah has undergone modifications to reduce its height to under 3 meters, increase ammunition capacity, and improve internal workspace and observation capabilities. Series production of 178 units is scheduled to begin in 2027 as the vehicle completes operational evaluation.

    Why it matters

    The Cheetah is part of a broader effort to bolster domestic defense capabilities amid regional tensions. This wheeled system is designed for Taiwan's specific terrain to provide mobile firepower. Its development coincides with ongoing U.S. military support, including the recent delivery of F-16V Block 70 fighters.

    What is confirmed

    • Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense unveiled the Cheetah armoured fighting vehicle on September 23, 2026.
    • The vehicle is an 8x8 mobile gun system equipped with a 105mm gun.
    • Production of 178 units is planned to start in 2027.
    • Live-fire tests in Tainan included the use of the main gun, remote-controlled turret, and coaxial machine guns.
    • Design improvements for the production model include reducing vehicle height to below 3 meters and increasing ammunition capacity.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The vehicle hit a moving target at approximately 1.2 km and a stationary target at about 1 km during exercises.
    • The vehicle demonstrated the ability to fire at targets positioned 90 degrees laterally while on a slight incline.

    What to watch next

    • Official confirmation of the start of series production in 2027
    • Integration and testing of the counter-drone upgrades currently under development
    Sources used for this update (11)
    1. www.twz.com — Land - The War Zone
    2. www.twz.com — The War Zone
    3. defenceredefined.com.cy — Cheetah | Taiwan Unveils New Armoured Fighting Vehicle ...
    4. tw.news.yahoo.com — 「軍傳媒」獵豹戰砲車邁向量產：國造105公厘輪型戰車的性能、缺口與戰...
    5. www.forte.jor.br — Taiwan demonstra blindado 8×8 com canhão de 105 mm antes da ...
    6. www.cnbc.com — Arming Taiwan is an important U.S. interest, Taipei official ...
    7. www.planobrazil.com — Taiwan apresenta novo sistema móvel 8×8 de 105 mm durante ...
    8. www.youtube.com — 獵豹輪型戰車公開實彈射擊了 為什麼要列裝105公厘輪型戰車 獵豹的性能...
    9. taiwansecuritymonitor.substack.com — Weekly Arms Update: The Week of 9/25/26
    10. focustaiwan.tw — Taiwan receives first 2 F-16V Block 70 fighter jets
    11. theaviationist.com — Taiwan Receives First Two New-Build F-16C Block 70 Fighters ...
    confidence 95%

  8. Taiwan's 105mm 8x8 Mobile Gun System Set for 2027 Production

    Taiwan's new 105mm 8x8 mobile gun system, also referred to as the Cheetah tank, is slated for production in 2027 with 178 vehicles planned. The wheeled armor vehicle is tailored for Taiwan's challenging terrain and will feature counter-drone upgrades under development. The development comes amid heightened regional tensions as Taipei bolsters its domestic defense capabilities.

    Why it matters

    The presentation of the armored vehicle coincides with Taiwan's efforts to enhance its military capabilities in the face of regional tensions, particularly with China. The upcoming summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden adds to the significance of this development. Taiwan's indigenous defense industry is advancing with this new project.

    What is confirmed

    • The 8x8 gun system is tailored for Taiwan's challenging terrain and set for 2027 production.
    • 178 vehicles are planned for production.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Counter-drone upgrades are under development.

    What to watch next

    • 2027 production start date
    • Delivery of the first 105mm 8x8 mobile gun systems
    • Integration of counter-drone upgrades
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.scoop.it — This Is Taiwan's New 105mm 8x8 Mobile Gun System
    2. www.armyrecognition.com — Taiwan’s 105mm Wheeled Armored Vehicle Signals a New Era in ...
    confidence 100%

  9. Taiwan Displays New 105mm Mobile Gun System

    Taiwan has showcased its new 105mm 8 by 8 mobile gun system, also referred to as the Cheetah tank. The military displayed the hunter-killer guns as Taiwan advances the vehicle toward production. The presentation of the armored vehicle coincides with the upcoming summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. Defense officials and military observers are closely tracking the development and production status of the platform as Taipei bolsters its domestic defense capabilities amid heightened regional tensions.

    Why it matters

    Taiwan continually updates its defense inventory to deter potential cross-strait aggression from Beijing. The development of mobile gun systems like the Cheetah tank gives ground forces rapid response capabilities across various terrains. Public demonstrations of indigenous military hardware often carry strategic signaling value ahead of major geopolitical meetings between world leaders.

    What is confirmed

    • Taiwan displayed its new 105mm 8 by 8 mobile gun system, known as the Cheetah tank.
    • The military showcased the hunter-killer guns ahead of the Xi-Trump summit.
    • Taiwan is advancing the Cheetah 105 mm vehicle towards production.

    What to watch next

    • Official announcements regarding the production timeline of the Cheetah 105mm vehicle
    • Developments or joint statements arising from the Xi-Trump summit concerning Taiwan
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. TWZ — This Is Taiwan’s New 105mm 8×8 Mobile Gun System
    2. The Telegraph — Taiwan flaunts ‘hunter-killer’ guns before Xi-Trump summit
    3. Taipei Times — Military shows off Cheetah tank
    4. Roanoke Times — TAIWAN-DEFENCE/
    5. Janes — Special Report: Taiwan advances Cheetah 105 mm vehicle towards production
    confidence 95%
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