Taiwan has expressed interest in acquiring Altius-600 and Altius-700M loitering munition systems, although the number of systems authorised has not been disclosed. The maximum value of this part of the package is estimated at up to USD 1.1 billion and includes training and logistics support, spare parts and necessary maintenance equipment.
Another element covers the potential sale of 1,060 FGM-148F Javelin anti-tank missiles along with 70 Lightweight Command Launch Units, simulators, training devices and training and logistics support services. This package has been valued at up to USD 375 million, while a further option includes 1,559 BGM-71F TOW-2B anti-tank missiles with 24 ITAS fire control units, intended for integration on HMMWV vehicles, at an estimated value of USD 353 million.
Significant reinforcement of artillery capabilities is also included, with authorisation for the potential purchase of 82 M142 HIMARS launchers with a wide range of munitions, including 420 M57 ATACMS missiles and large quantities of M31A2 and M30A2 rockets. This package, which also includes M1152A1 HMMWV vehicles, IFATDS fire control modules, logistics vehicles and communications systems, has been valued at up to USD 4 billion.
A separate artillery package provides for the possible acquisition of 60 M109A7 self-propelled howitzers with an equal number of M992A3 ammunition vehicles and 13 M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicles. It also includes 4,080 PGK guidance kits for 155 mm artillery ammunition and has likewise been valued at up to USD 4 billion.
The final element of the approval covers the potential sale of the TMNS tactical communications system, with an estimated cost of up to USD 1 billion. The broad authorisation is seen as part of current policy in Washington aimed at strengthening Taiwan’s defensive capabilities in response to the growing military power of China.
