Taiwan conducts large‑scale coastal artillery and HIMARS drill amid China tensions

Taiwan's army carried out its first live‑fire test of the U.S‑made HIMARS multiple‑rocket launcher on the western coast near Taichung, firing about thirty short‑range rockets followed by M109A2 and M110A2 self‑propelled howitzers and 155 mm artillery. The exercise simulated inter‑regional fire support against high‑value targets in a scenario where central forces reinforce an attacked region. Taiwan currently operates 11 HIMARS systems, expects 18 more this year, and has U.S. approval for an additional 82 units worth billions of dollars.

In a related coastal‑defense drill, Taiwan fired rockets, heavy artillery, anti‑tank missiles and mortars along a 20‑kilometre stretch of shoreline, using eight forward positions to rehearse repelling a potential Chinese amphibious landing. Weapons included domestically‑developed Thunderbolt‑2000 rockets, U.S.‑made M109A6 Paladin howitzers, mortars and anti‑tank missiles. The maneuvers were conducted under shorter‑notice, realistic combat conditions. The drills come as Taiwan reports increased Chinese Coast Guard activity, frequent PLA air and naval patrols, and deployments of the carrier Liaoning in the western Pacific.