Republic of China Army#History

{{Short description|Ground branch of Taiwan's military}}

{{Distinguish|People's Liberation Army Ground Force|Republic of China Armed Forces|National Revolutionary Army}}

{{Redirect|Taiwanese Army}}

{{Infobox military unit

| unit_name = Republic of China Army

| native_name =

| image = Republic of China Army (ROCA) Logo.svg

| image_size = 200px

| caption = Emblem of the Republic of China Army

| start_date = {{Start date and age|df=y|1924|06|16}} (as the National Revolutionary Army)
{{Start date and age|df=y|1946|6|1}} (as the Republic of China Army)

| dates =

| country = {{ROC-TW}}

| allegiance =

| branch =

| type = Ground Force

| role = Ground warfare

| size = 94,000 (2024){{Cite book |author=IISS |author-link=International Institute for Strategic Studies |date=2024 |title=The Military Balance 2024 |page=315 |publisher=Routledge |location=London |isbn=978-1-032-78004-7 }}

| command_structure = Republic of China Armed Forces

| garrison = Longtan, Taoyuan, Republic of China

| garrison_label =

| nickname =

| patron =

| motto = {{lang|zh|親愛精誠 ("qīn ài jīng chéng, translated as "Devoted and Sincere Love")}}

| colors = {{color box|Gold|border=silver}} Gold
{{color box|Green|border=silver}} Green

| colors_label =

| march = {{lang|zh|陸軍軍歌}}
("Lùjūnjūngē"; "Liu̍k-kiûn Kiûn-kô"; English: "The Army Song")

| mascot =

| equipment =

| equipment_label =

| battles = {{Tree list}}

{{tree list/end}}

| anniversaries =

| decorations =

| battle_honours =

| disbanded =

| website = {{URL|https://army.mnd.gov.tw/|Chinese}}
{{URL|https://army.mnd.gov.tw/EN/index.aspx|English}}

| commander1 = {{Flagicon image|ROC Commanding General of Army Flag.svg|size=25px}} General Chung Shu-ming

| commander1_label = Commander of the Army

| commander2 = {{Flagicon image|ROCA Lieutenant General's Flag.svg|size=25px}} Lieutenant-General Fang Mao-hung

| commander2_label = Deputy Commander of the Republic of China Army

| commander3 = {{Flagicon image|ROCA Lieutenant General's Flag.svg|size=25px}} Lieutenant-General Wang Hsing-li

| commander3_label = Deputy Commander of the Republic of China Army

| notable_commanders =

| identification_symbol = 80px 80px

| identification_symbol_label = Roundel

| identification_symbol_2 = Image:Flag of the Republic of China Army.svg

| identification_symbol_2_label = Flag

| identification_symbol_3 = 200px

| identification_symbol_3_label = Unit colour

| aircraft_helicopter_attack = AH-1W, AH-64E

| aircraft_helicopter_observation = OH-58D

| aircraft_helicopter_utility = UH-60M

| aircraft_helicopter_trainer = TH-67A

| aircraft_helicopter_cargo = CH-47SD, UH-60M

| module = {{Infobox Chinese

|showflag = stp

|s = 中华民国陆军

|t = 中華民國陸軍

|p = Zhōnghuá Mínguó Lùjūn

|mi = {{IPAc-cmn|zh|ong|1|h|ua|2|-|m|in|2|g|uo|2|-|l|u|4|jvn|1}}

|myr = Jūnghwá Míngwó Lùjyūn

|w = {{tone superscript|Chung1-hua2 Min2-kuo2 Lu4-chün1}}

|bpmf = ㄓㄨㄥ ㄏㄨㄚˊ ㄇㄧㄣˊ ㄍㄨㄛˊ ㄌㄨˋ ㄐㄩㄣ

|poj = Tiong-hôa-bîn-kok Lio̍k-kun

|tp = Jhonghuá Mínguó Lùjyun

|h = Chûng-fà Mìn-koet Liu̍k-kiûn

|child = yes}}

}}

The Republic of China Army ({{lang-Chinese|中華民國陸軍}}) also known as the ROC Army, or colloquially the Taiwanese Army ({{lang-Chinese|台湾陆军}}){{cite web|last=Bardenhagen|first=Klaus|date=2021|title=Taiwan's army 'ill-prepared' for potential Chinese attack|url=https://www.dw.com/en/taiwans-army-ill-prepared-for-potential-chinese-attack/a-57102659|access-date=|website=Deutsche Welle|language=en-GB|quote=The morale and training of the Taiwanese army will probably play a major role in determining whether Taiwan really is ready to defend itself in an emergency.}} by western or mainland Chinese media, is the largest branch of Taiwan's military, the Republic of China (Taiwan) Armed Forces.

An estimated 80% of the ROC Army is based on the Main Island of Taiwan, while the remainder are stationed on the Penghu, Kinmen, Matsu, Dongsha, and Taiping Islands.

Since the Chinese Civil War, no armistice or peace treaty has ever been signed between the Republic of China regime and the communist regime, so as the final line of defense against a possible invasion by the People's Liberation Army (PLA), the primary focus of the ROC Army is on defense and counterattack against amphibious assault and urban warfare.

Organization

File:陸軍二級上將鍾樹明2023.jpg {{Ill|Chung Shu-ming|zh|鍾樹明}}, the incumbent commander of the ROC Army]]

File:ROC Army Logistics Command 20130410.jpg

File:Chung Shyang II UAV.jpg]]

The ROC Army's current operational strength includes three armies, five corps. As of 2005, the Army's 35 brigades include 25 infantry brigades, five armoured brigades and three mechanized infantry brigades.{{cite web| title=Speculative ROC Army ORBAT| work=Taiwanmilitary.org| url=http://www.taiwanmilitary.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=8213| access-date=2006-03-08| url-status=usurped| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928013525/http://www.taiwanmilitary.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=8213| archive-date=2007-09-28}}{{cite web| title=ROC Army| publisher=GlobalSecurity.org| url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/taiwan/army.htm| access-date=2006-03-08| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060308134003/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/taiwan/army.htm| archive-date=2006-03-08| url-status=live}}{{cite web|year=2004 |title=2004 National Defense Report |work=ROC Ministry of National Defense |url=http://report.mnd.gov.tw/eng/pdf/all-1-360.pdf |access-date=2006-03-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060311012134/http://report.mnd.gov.tw/eng/pdf/all-1-360.pdf |archive-date=2006-03-11 |url-status=dead }} All infantry brigades stood down and transferred to Reserve Command after 2005.

This update reflects the ROCA order of battle at the conclusion of the Jinjing Restructuring Plan in 2008.

A new type of unit called defense team ({{lang|zh-Hant|守備隊}}) is being introduced. These are formed by elements of de-activated brigades under each area defense command. The strength of a defense team may vary from one or more reinforced battalions, making it roughly equal to a regiment. The team CO is usually a full colonel.{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20070928013525/http://www.taiwanmilitary.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=8213 August 12, 2007. Retrieved Sept 16, 2009]}}

In the event of war most of the high command would retreat to underground bunkers, tunnel complexes, and command posts.{{cite web |last1=Everington |first1=Keoni |title=List of Taiwan targets for China's bombers revealed |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4113229 |date=28 January 2021 |work=Taiwan News |access-date=28 January 2021}}

= Republic of China Army Command Headquarters =

: The ROC Army CHQ ({{lang|zh-Hant|中華民國國防部陸軍司令部}}) is headed by a 3-star general and is responsible for overall command of all ROC Army assets. Army GHQ is subordinate to the Chief of the General Staff (military), the Minister of National Defense (civilian) and the ROC President.

:* Internal Units: Personnel, Combat Readiness and Training, Logistics, Planning, Communications, Electronics and Information, General Affairs, Comptroller, Inspector General, Political Warfare.

:* 25px Aviation and Special Forces Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|航空特戰指揮部}}){{Cite web |title=Headquarters – Republic of China Army |url=https://army.mnd.gov.tw/Article/Index/7306 |work=Republic of China Army Headquarters |publisher=Ministry of National Defense |access-date=April 21, 2024 }}

::* 601 Aviation Brigade (original special force battalion assigned transferred back to 862nd Brigade)

::* 602 Aviation Brigade (original special force battalion assigned transferred back to 862nd Brigade)

::* Army Flight Training Command (Converted to the 603 Aviation Brigade during the war)

::* 101st Reconnaissance Battalion (better known as Sea Dragon Frogman, has a company station in Kinmen, Matsu, 3 in Penghu, and other frontline islands)

::* Special Forces Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|特戰指揮部}}) In charge of 3 training centers

:::* Army Airborne Training Center ({{lang|zh-Hant|大武營「陸軍空降訓練中心」}})

:::* Army Special Forces Training Center ({{lang|zh-Hant|谷關「陸軍特戰訓練中心」}})

:::*Army Winter and Mountain Training Center ({{lang|zh-Hant|武嶺寒訓中心}})

::* Special Forces Command (originally 862nd Special Operation Brigade)

::: Special Force 1st Battalion

::: Special Force 2nd Battalion

::: Special Force 3rd Battalion

::: Special Force 4th Battalion

::: Special Force 5th Battalion

:* 25px 6th Army Corps ({{lang|zh-Hant|第六軍團指揮部}}): Northern Taiwan

::* 20px Guandu Area Command

::* 20px Lanyang Area Command

::* 20px 269 Mechanized Infantry Brigade

::* 20px 542 Armor Brigade

::* 20px 584 Armor Brigade

::* 21 Artillery Command

::* 53 Engineer Group

::* 73 Signals Group

::* 33 Chemical Warfare Group{{cite web |last1=Yu |first1=Matt |last2=Teng-yi |first2=Wang |last3=Lim |first3=Emerson |title=Chemical soldiers: Taiwan's unsung protectors in fight against COVID |url=https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202106010019 |website=Focus Taiwan |date=June 2021 |access-date=8 July 2021}}

:* 25px 8th Army Corps ({{lang|zh-Hant|第八軍團指揮部}}): Southern Taiwan

::* 333 Mechanized Infantry Brigade

::* 20px 564 Armor Brigade

::* 43 Artillery Command

::* 54 Engineer Group

::* 75 Signals Group

::* 39 Chemical Warfare Group

:* 25px 10th Army Corps ({{lang|zh-Hant|第十軍團指揮部}}): Central Taiwan

::* 234 Mechanized Infantry Brigade (will receive CM-32 "Clouded Leopard" wheeled IFV beginning of 2011){{cite web | title=ROC Army 602nd Air Cav Brigade 2010 Open Base Exercise In The Rain | work=wretch.cc/blog/ | url=http://www.wretch.cc/blog/hojiyi/887241 | access-date=2010-11-14 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110114024908/http://www.wretch.cc/blog/hojiyi/887241 | archive-date=2011-01-14 | url-status=live }}

::* 20px 586 Armor Brigade

::* 58 Artillery Command

::* 52 Engineer Group

::* 36 Chemical Warfare Group

::* 74 Signals Group

:* 25px Hua-Tung Defense Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|花東防衛指揮部}}): Eastern Taiwan

::* Hualien ({{lang|zh-Hant|花蓮}}) Defense Team

::* Taitung ({{lang|zh-Hant|台東}}) Area Command

:* 25px Kinmen Defense Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|金門防衛指揮部}})

::* Jindong ({{lang|zh-Hant|金東}}, Kinmen East) Defense Team

::* Jinshih ({{lang|zh-Hant|金西}}, Kinmen West) Defense Team

::* Lieyu ({{linktext|lang=zh-tw|烈嶼}}) Defense Team{{Cite news |first=Hsiang-hsin |last=Chen |title=烈嶼指揮部(小金門)縮編守備大隊 大、二膽防務沒影響 |trans-title=Lieyu Command (in Lesser Kinmen) is downsizes as a defense team, whereas the defense of Dadan and Erdan is not affected |url=https://www.matsu-news.gov.tw/news/article/176437 |newspaper=World Journal ePaper version |via=Matsu Daily News |date=23 January 2014 |access-date=14 November 2024 |language=zh-hant |location=Kinmen |url-status=live |archive-date=20 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140220161246/http://van.worldjournal.com/view/full_van/24428526/article-%E7%83%88%E6%8C%87%E9%83%A8%E8%B5%B0%E5%85%A5%E6%AD%B7%E5%8F%B2-%E5%A4%A7%E4%BA%8C%E8%86%BD%E6%B2%92%E5%BD%B1%E9%9F%BF?instance=bcnews2}}

::* Artillery Group

:*25px Penghu Defense Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|澎湖防衛指揮部}})

::* 1 Armored Battalion, 1 Armored Infantry Battalion, 1 Armored Cav Battalion, 1 mixed Artillery Battalion.

:* 25px Matsu Defense Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|馬祖防衛指揮部}})

::* Nangan ({{lang|zh-Hant|南竿}}) Defense Team

::* Beigan ({{lang|zh-Hant|北竿}}) Defense Team

::* Juguang ({{lang|zh-Hant|莒光}}) Defense Team

:* 25px Dongyin Area Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|東引地區指揮部}})

:* Logistics Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|後勤指揮部}})

:* Education, Training and Doctrine Command ({{lang|zh-Hant|教育訓練暨準則發展指揮部}})

:* Republic of China Military Academy, Training & Command Schools, Chemical Warfare Corps, Engineering Corps, Arsenal Development.

:* 11 infantry brigades

::*101 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 10th Army Corps)

::*104 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 10th Army Corps)

::*109 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 6th Army Corps)

::*117 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 8th Army Corps)

::*137 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 8th Army Corps)

::*153 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 6th Army Corps)

::*203 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 8th Army Corps)

::*206 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 6th Army Corps)

::*249 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 6th Army Corps)

::*257 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 10th Army Corps)

::*302 Infantry Brigade (tactical command: 10th Army Corps)

:* Northern Area Reserve Command

:**Keelung City Reserve Brigade

:**Taipei City Reserve Brigade

:**New Taipei City Reserve Brigade

:**Taoyuan City Reserve Brigade

:**Hsinchu Reserve Brigade

:**Yilan County Reserve Brigade

:**Hualien County Reserve Brigade

:**Lianjiang County Reserve Brigade

:**Northern Region First Reserve Force Training Center

:* Central Area Reserve Command

:**Miaoli County Reserve Brigade

:**Taichung City Reserve First Brigade

:**Taichung City Reserve Second Brigade

:**Changhua County Reserve Brigade

:**Nantou County Reserve Brigade

:**Yunlin County Reserve Brigade

:**Chiayi Reserve Brigade

:**Central Region Reserve Forces Training Center

:* Southern Area Reserve Command

:**Tainan City Reserve Brigade

:**Kaohsiung City Reserve First Brigade

:**Kaohsiung City Reserve Second Brigade

:**Pingtung County Reserve Brigade

:**Taitung County Reserve Brigade

:**Penghu County Reserve Brigade

:**Kinmen County Reserve Brigade

:**Southern Region Reserve Forces Training Center

::*24 Reserve brigades (Activated only in time of war)

ROC Army's former Army Missile Command was transferred to ROC Air Force in 2006.

File:Republic of China Army, Organization 2016.png

Ranks

{{main|Republic of China Armed Forces rank insignia}}

=Commissioned officer ranks=

The rank insignia of commissioned officers.

style="border:1px solid #8888aa; background:#f7f8ff; padding:5px; font-size:95%; margin:0 12px 12px 0;"

{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armies/OF/Blank}}

{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armies/OF/Republic of China}}

=Other ranks=

The rank insignia of non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel.

style="border:1px solid #8888aa; background:#f7f8ff; padding:5px; font-size:95%; margin:0 12px 12px 0;"

{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armies/OR/Blank}}

{{Ranks and Insignia of Non NATO Armies/OR/Republic of China}}

=Training=

The Republic of China Military Academy, established in 1924, trains officers for the army in a four-year collegiate course of study, after which they graduate with an officer's commission and a bachelor's degree.

History

=The Army of the Nationalist Chinese regime=

Image:ROC Army Honor Guard.jpg in Taipei]]

{{main|National Revolutionary Army|Military Affairs Commission}}

The Republic of China Army originated from the National Revolutionary Army of the Nationalist Chinese regime, which was founded by Sun Yat-sen's Kuomintang (KMT) in 1924, when the Whampoa Military Academy was established with Soviet military assistance.

Whampoa Military Academy, which was presided by Chiang Kai-shek, was tasked with the objective of training a professional Chinese revolutionary army ({{lang|zh-Hant|革命軍人}}) to unify China during the Warlord Era. It participated in the Northern Expedition, the Second Sino-Japanese War (during World War II) and the Chinese Civil War before withdrawing of the ROC government to Taiwan in 1949.

= Retreat to Taiwan =

After 1949, the ROC Army has participated in combat operations on Kinmen and the Dachen Archipelago against the PLA in the Battle of Kuningtou, and in the First and Second Taiwan Strait Crisis. In addition to these major conflicts, ROCA commandos were regularly sent to raid the Fujian and Guangdong coasts. Until the 1970s, the stated mission of the Army was to retake the mainland from the People's Republic of China. Following the lifting of martial law in 1987 and the democratization of the 1990s, the mission of the ROC Army has been shifted to the defense of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu from a PLA invasion.

= Modern Era =

With the reduction of the size of the ROC armed forces in recent years, the Army has endured the largest number of cutbacks as ROC military doctrine has begun to emphasize the importance of offshore engagement with the Navy and Air Force. Subsequent to this shift in emphasis, the ROC Navy and Air Force have taken precedence over the ROC Army in defense doctrine and weapons procurement.{{cite journal | author=Roy, Denny | title=Taiwan's Threat Perceptions: The Enemy Within | journal=Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies | year=2003 | url=http://www.apcss.org/Publications/Ocasional%20Papers/OPTaiwanThreat.pdf | access-date=2006-03-09 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060422035851/http://www.apcss.org/Publications/Ocasional%20Papers/OPTaiwanThreat.pdf | archive-date=2006-04-22 | url-status=live }} See "Reforming the Armed Forces", page 5. Recent short-term goals in the Army include acquisition and development of joint command and control systems, advanced attack helicopters and armored vehicles, multiple launch rocket system and field air defense systems. The Army is also in the process of transitioning to an all volunteer force.

During the COVID-19 pandemic Army chemical warfare units were used to disinfect public areas and to do spot disinfections around known disease clusters. In January 2021 the 33rd Chemical Warfare Group was deployed to Taoyuan City to deal with a cluster of infections around a hospital there.{{cite web |last1=Everington |first1=Keoni |title=Taiwan deploys chemical warfare troops to disinfect Taoyuan |url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4108265 |website=www.taiwannews.com.tw |date=21 January 2021 |publisher=Taiwan News |access-date=21 January 2021}}

Equipment

{{main|List of equipment of the Republic of China Army}}

From the 1990s onwards, the Republic of China Army launched several upgrade programmes to replace outdated equipment with more advanced weapons, also increasing its emphasis on forces that could be rapidly deployed and were suited for combat in Taiwan's heavily urbanized environment. Orders were placed with the United States for M60A3 Patton tanks, M109A5 "Paladin" howitzers and AH-1W SuperCobra attack helicopters, as well as updating existing equipment.

Along with the other ROC military branches, the ROC Army has extensive experience in the construction and utilization of tunnels and bases gained during the People's Republic of China's bombardments of Kinmen and Matsu during the Cold War and many facilities are rumoured to be located underground in undisclosed locations.

The U.S. Government announced on October 3, 2008, that it plans to sell $6.5 billion worth of arms to Taiwan ending the freeze of arms sales to Taiwan. Amongst other things, the plans include $2.532 billion worth of 30 AH-64D Apache Longbow Block III Attack helicopters with night-vision sensors, radar, 173 Stinger Block I air-to-air missiles and 1000 AGM-114L Hellfire missiles.{{cite web|url=http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2008/Taiwan_08-41.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2009-07-18 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227183431/http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2008/Taiwan_08-41.pdf |archive-date=2009-02-27 }} and 182 Javelin missiles will also be available with 20 Javelin command launchers and is estimated to cost $47 million.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/05/world/asia/05taiwan.html|title=Arms Deal to Taiwan Riles China|last=Shanker|first=Thom|date=2008-10-04|work=The New York Times|access-date=2020-01-11|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200111203912/https://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/05/world/asia/05taiwan.html|archive-date=2020-01-11|url-status=live}}

On January 29, 2010, US Government announced 5 notifications to US Congress for arms sales to Taiwan. Of the total 6.392 billion US dollars in the 5 announcements, ROC Army will receive 60 UH-60M and other related things for cost of 3.1 Billion.{{cite news|url=http://www.dsca.osd.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2010/Taiwan_09-03.pdf |title=USDA New Release |publisher=dsca.mil |date=2010-01-29 |access-date=2010-01-29 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721172006/https://www.dsca.osd.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2010/Taiwan_09-03.pdf |archive-date=2011-07-21 }}

= Aviation Assets =

File:ROCA AH-64E 802 and UH-60M 912 Flight over Hongchailin Camp 20161224d.jpg

In July 2007 it was reported that the ROC Army would request the purchase of 30 AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters from the US in the 2008 defence budget.{{cite news |title=Taiwan to Buy Apaches to Counter China Threat |access-date=2007-10-07 |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?F=2886256&C=asiapac |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630144414/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?F=2886256&C=asiapac |url-status=dead |archive-date=2012-06-30 |date=2007-07-09 |work=Defense News }} In October 2015 it was announced that 9 AH-64E had been grounded due to oxidation of components in the helicopters' tail rotor gearboxes and comprehensive safety checks were made on all Apaches. The 2008 defense budget also listed a request for 60 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters as a partial replacement for the UH-1Hs currently in service.{{cite web |title=Report says Taiwan sold 1 billion rifle bullets to U.S. |access-date=2007-11-05 |url=http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/2007/11/06/129723/Taiwan-ships.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071109223000/http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/2007/11/06/129723/Taiwan-ships.htm |archive-date=2007-11-09 |url-status=live }}

=Main battle tanks=

Image:M60A3 Taiwan 03.jpg

As of 2019, the ROC army has 480 M60A3s, 450 CM11s (modified M48 turrets mated to M60 chassis), and 250 CM12s (CM-11 turrets mated to M48 hulls). The design and technology used in the tanks date back to the 1940s and 1950s, including their 105mm rifled gun and utilizing traditional steel armor plating rather than composite materials used in modern armored fighting vehicles. It is expected that the majority of the ROC Army's armored units would continue to be equipped with legacy tanks in upgraded form after the army acquires the newer modern tanks.{{cite web | url=http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2019/07/09/2003718367 | title=Army to upgrade Patton tanks to build up forces - Taipei Times | date=9 July 2019 | access-date=2019-08-01 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190801184142/http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2019/07/09/2003718367 | archive-date=2019-08-01 | url-status=live }} As of 2015, some CM11 tanks are observed to be upgraded with explosive reactive armor around the turret and hull.{{cite web | url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/armor/detail.asp?armor_id=219 | title=CM-11 Brave Tiger (M48H) Main Battle Tank (MBT) - Taiwan | access-date=2019-09-26 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109234921/https://www.militaryfactory.com/armor/detail.asp?armor_id=219 | archive-date=2018-11-09 | url-status=live }}

In October 2017, Taiwan announced an upgrade program for 450 M60A3s consisting of replacing the main gun with a new 120 mm weapon, as well as upgrading the ballistics computer, turret hydraulics, and other systems. Testing and evaluation are expected to be completed in 2019 and application of new features to start in 2020.[https://www.defensenews.com/land/2017/10/06/giving-up-on-abrams-tank-acquisition-taiwan-moves-to-upgrade-its-m60a3-tanks/ Giving up on Abrams tank acquisition, Taiwan moves to upgrade its M60A3 tanks] - Defensenews.com, 6 October 2017 However, in July 2018 the Ministry of National Defense renewed its interest in acquiring Abrams, and had set aside US$990 million to purchase 108 M1A2s while modernization of existing M60A3s in service continues.[https://www.janes.com/article/81684/taiwan-seeking-to-buy-m1a2-abrams-mbts-from-us/ Taiwan seeking to buy M1A2 Abrams MBTs from US] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921115433/https://www.janes.com/article/81684/taiwan-seeking-to-buy-m1a2-abrams-mbts-from-us |date=2018-09-21 }} - Jane's 360, 11 July 2018

On June 7, 2019, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense confirmed that Taiwan has signed a $2 billion weapons deal with the Trump administration, which includes a purchase of 108 M1A2T (M1A2C export variant for Taiwan) Abrams battle tanks. Taiwanese defense officials intend to use the M1A2T Abrams battle tank to replace its army's M60A3 and M48H CM11 tanks.Carlo Muñoz, [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/jun/7/us-sell-new-tanks-anti-aircraft-missiles-taiwan/ "Defying China, U.S. to sell new tanks, anti-aircraft missiles to Taiwan in $2B deal"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190609224306/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/jun/7/us-sell-new-tanks-anti-aircraft-missiles-taiwan/ |date=2019-06-09 }}, The Washington Times, June 7th 2019{{cite web | url=https://www.defenseworld.net/news/24494/Taiwan_Likely_To_Buy_Over_100_US____M1A2X_Main_Battle_Tanks_This_Year | title=Taiwan Likely to Buy over 100 US' M1A2X Main Battle Tanks This Year | access-date=2019-06-21 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190621055318/https://www.defenseworld.net/news/24494/Taiwan_Likely_To_Buy_Over_100_US____M1A2X_Main_Battle_Tanks_This_Year | archive-date=2019-06-21 | url-status=live }} On July 8, 2019, the U.S. State Department approved the sale of new M1A2T Abrams tanks to Taiwan despite criticism and protest of the deal from the People's Republic of China (PRC). The deal includes 122 M2 Mounted Machine Guns, 216 M240 machine guns, 14 M88A2 HERCULES vehicles, and 16 M1070A1 Heavy Equipment Transporters. General Dynamics Land Systems will build the tanks at Anniston Army Depot, Alabama, and at Joint Systems Manufacturing Center in Lima, Ohio. The final signing of the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) was confirmed on December 21, 2019.{{cite web | url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3841920 | title=Taiwan and U.S. Sign agreement for F-16V fighter jet deal | date=21 December 2019 | access-date=2019-12-21 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191221080841/https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3841920 | archive-date=2019-12-21 | url-status=live }} The tanks represent the first sale of new tanks to the ROC Army in decades from the US. Surplus M1A1 tanks were previously rejected by previous US administrations, including George W. Bush in 2001.{{cite web | url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/china-will-be-mad-taiwan-will-get-m1-abrams-tanks-america-and-more-66281 | title=China Will be Mad: Taiwan Will Get M1 Abrams Tanks from America (And More)| date=2019-07-10}} Current ROC tanks include used M60A3 tanks and locally manufactured M48 tanks in which the initial variants were first produced between the 1950s and 1960s.{{cite web | url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2019/07/08/state-okays-possible-2-billion-abrams-tank-sale-to-taiwan/ | title=US State Dept. OKs possible $2 billion Abrams tank sale to Taiwan| date=2019-07-09}}{{Cite news|url = https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-taiwan/u-s-state-department-approves-possible-2-2-billion-arms-sale-to-taiwan-idUSKCN1U32HT|title = U.S. State Department approves possible $2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan|newspaper = Reuters|date = 2019-07-09|access-date = 2019-07-09|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190709033506/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-taiwan/u-s-state-department-approves-possible-2-2-billion-arms-sale-to-taiwan-idUSKCN1U32HT|archive-date = 2019-07-09|url-status = live}}{{cite web |url=https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/taipei-economic-and-cultural-representative-office-united-states-tecro-m1a2t-abrams |title=Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) – M1A2T Abrams Tanks and Related Equipment and Support | The Official Home of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency |publisher=Dsca.mil |date=2019-07-08 |access-date=2020-01-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222094116/https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/taipei-economic-and-cultural-representative-office-united-states-tecro-m1a2t-abrams |archive-date=2020-02-22 |url-status=live }} The first batch of 38 tanks were received on December 16, 2024, with the remaining tanks to be delivered in two patches, one in 2025 and the final batch in 2026.{{Cite web |date=2024-12-16 |title=Taiwan receives first batch of M1A2T Abrams tanks |url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/taiwan-receives-first-batch-of-m1a2t-abrams-tanks |access-date=2024-12-19 |website=Default |language=en}}

Some criticisms were made of these M1 Abrams purchases, some analysts expressed that Taiwan's terrain and some of its bridges and roads are unsuitable for the 60-tonne M1A2. However, Taiwan's current tanks have older 105-millimeter rifled guns that may not be able to readily penetrate the frontal armor of modern People's Liberation Army (PLA) Type 96 and Type 99 tanks, which can easily penetrate the Patton's old-fashioned steel armor with their smoothbore 125mm ZPT-98 main gun. The M1A2T tank's 120mm gun is capable of destroying PLA tanks without reliance on anti-tank missiles.{{cite web | url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/will-taiwan-get-new-f-16v-fighters-it-desperately-wants-67932 |title = Will Taiwan Get the New F-16V Fighters It Desperately Wants?|date = 2019-07-20}} Moreover, tanks can be used as mobile reserves for counterattacks against PLA beach landings, which was successful during the Battle of Guningtou.{{cite web| url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/taiwans-tanks-managed-do-what-hitlers-mighty-panzers-failed-19584| title=Taiwan's Tanks Managed to do What Hitler's Mighty Panzers Failed to do at Normandy| date=2017-02-26| access-date=2019-07-21| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180717035242/http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/taiwans-tanks-managed-do-what-hitlers-mighty-panzers-failed-19584| archive-date=2018-07-17| url-status=live}} ROC Army Chief of Staff, Yang Hai-ming, said that China's best tank, the heavy Type 99 tank, would not be able to be transported in an amphibious invasion during a potential war with Taiwan and the PLA would have to rely on the much lighter 20-ton Type 63A tanks. Due to this logistics issue for the PLA there is less concern about the M1A2T tanks having to deal with China's most modern tanks during an amphibious invasion.{{cite web |url=https://www.defenseworld.net/news/25552/ |archive-date=Oct 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006003052/https://www.defenseworld.net/news/25552/#.YVzuTPh_r2c |title=Taiwan's US-made M1A2T Abrams 'More Capable' than Chinese Type 99 Tanks |date=Sep 26, 2019 |website=www.defenseworld.net |language=en |access-date=23 August 2023}}

=Infantry vehicles=

Image:Firecar2.jpg

CM-32 Yunpao, an 8x8 armoured personnel carrier locally manufactured, will replace ageing M113s and V-150 armoured vehicles. It is a modular vehicle platform capable of accepting various configurations for specific combat requirements. As of 2019, an IFV version of Yunpao armed with Orbital ATK 30mm Mk44 Bushmaster II cannons, CM-34, is planned for production.{{cite web | url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/january_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/taiwainese_cm-34_armored_vehicles_production_to_start_this_year.html | title=Taiwainese CM-34 armored vehicles production to start this year | January 2019 Global Defense Security army news industry | Defense Security global news industry army 2019 | Archive News year | date=3 January 2019 | access-date=2019-09-26 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190926065442/https://www.armyrecognition.com/january_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/taiwainese_cm-34_armored_vehicles_production_to_start_this_year.html | archive-date=2019-09-26 | url-status=live }} Production of a version with a 105-mm assault gun, which is modeled on that of the CM-11 Brave Tiger main battle tank, is also scheduled to be completed by 2023.{{cite web | url=http://focustaiwan.tw/news/aipl/201904080016.aspx | title=Taiwan set to develop two indigenous armored vehicles by end 2023 - Focus Taiwan | date=8 April 2019 | access-date=2019-09-26 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190921182323/http://focustaiwan.tw/news/aipl/201904080016.aspx | archive-date=2019-09-21 | url-status=live }}

=Air defense=

File:Antelope Air Defense System in Songshan Air Force Base 20110813a.jpg

Long and medium range air defense systems are operated by the Republic of China Air Force with the Army assuming much of the SHORAD mission. The most modern air defense system of the Army is the US-made Avenger.{{cite web |title=The Antelope |url=https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/the-antelope/ |website=missiledefenseadvocacy.org |publisher=Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance |access-date=21 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721220608/https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/the-antelope/ |archive-date=21 July 2019 |url-status=live }}

The ROCA is in the process of fielding the Surface-to-Air TC-2 medium range air defense system.{{cite web |title=IDEX 2019: Land-based TC-2 air defense missile system by NCSIST |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/idex_2019_news_official_online_show_daily_partner/idex_2019_land-based_tc-2_air_defense_missile_system_by_ncsist.html |website=www.armyrecognition.com |date=27 February 2019 |publisher=Army Recognition |access-date=21 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721220608/https://www.armyrecognition.com/idex_2019_news_official_online_show_daily_partner/idex_2019_land-based_tc-2_air_defense_missile_system_by_ncsist.html |archive-date=21 July 2019 |url-status=live }} Development of a surface launched TC-2 began with the ROCN in 1994.{{cite web |title=Tien Chien-2N (TC-2N) |url=https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/tien-chien-2n-tc-2n/ |website=missiledefenseadvocacy.org |publisher=Missile Defense Advocacy Association |access-date=21 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721220609/https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/air-defense/air-defense-of-u-s-partners/allied-air-defense-systems/tien-chien-2n-tc-2n/ |archive-date=21 July 2019 |url-status=live }}

On June 7, 2019, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense confirmed that Taiwan has signed a $2 billion weapons deal with the Trump administration, which includes a purchase of "250 surface-to-air Stinger missile systems." Taiwan's ROC Army already has 2,223 Stinger missile systems.

=Artillery=

File:ROCA Self-propelled Howitzers Display at ORDC Yue Kang Road 20121013.jpg

On September 23, 2019, former Defense Minister Yen De-fa ({{lang|zh|嚴德發}}) confirmed the Republic of China Armed Forces has requested the purchase of M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzers from the United States. On August 4, 2021, the Biden administration approved a potential $750 million sale of 40 M109A6 self-propelled howitzers and other supporting equipment, including up to 1,698 kits for precision-guided munitions.{{cite web|url=https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/taipei-economic-and-cultural-representative-office-united-states-20|title=Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) – 155mm M109A6 Paladin Medium Self-Propelled Howitzer System | Defense Security Cooperation Agency}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/us-approves-potential-sales-howitzers-taiwan-pentagon-2021-08-04/|title=U.S. Approves potential sale of howitzers to Taiwan - Pentagon|newspaper=Reuters|date=5 August 2021}}{{cite web|url=https://thehill.com/policy/defense/566406-biden-administration-approves-first-arms-sale-to-taiwan|title = Biden administration approves first arms sale to Taiwan|date = 4 August 2021}}{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-08-04/first-arms-sale-to-taiwan-by-biden-administration-is-approved |title=First Taiwan Arms Sale in Biden Administration Is Approved |first=Anthony |last=Capaccio |orig-date=August 4, 2021 |date=August 5, 2021 |publisher=Bloomberg b|access-date=2022-04-12}}{{cite web | url=http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2019/09/24/2003722825 | title=Minister confirms Paladin howitzer purchase request - Taipei Times | access-date=2019-09-23 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190923222529/http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2019/09/24/2003722825 | archive-date=2019-09-23 | url-status=live }}{{cite web| url=https://www.pmnewsnigeria.com/2019/09/23/taiwan-set-to-purchase-upgraded-artillery-from-united-states/| title=Taiwan set to purchase upgraded artillery from United States| date=2019-09-23| access-date=2019-09-23| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190923222530/https://www.pmnewsnigeria.com/2019/09/23/taiwan-set-to-purchase-upgraded-artillery-from-united-states/| archive-date=2019-09-23| url-status=live}} However, the M109A6 is reportedly delayed until 2026 or later due to crowded production line forcing the Republic of China Armed Forces to look for alternatives.{{cite news | url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/taiwan-considers-alternatives-after-us-informs-howitzer-delay-2022-05-02/ | title=Taiwan considers alternatives after U.S. Informs of howitzer delay | newspaper=Reuters | date=2 May 2022 }}{{cite web | url=https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2022/04/14/pandemic-delays-spark-14-billion-backlog-of-us-defense-transfers-to-taiwan/ | title=Document reveals $14 billion backlog of US defense transfers to Taiwan | date=14 April 2022 }} As of March 2023, the Republic of China Armed Forces is reportedly attempting to acquire hundreds of missile trucks and self-propelled howitzers from the Czech Republic.{{cite web | url=https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4848774 | title=Taiwan nearing deal on missile trucks, self-propelled artillery from Czech Republic | Taiwan News | 2023-03-28 13:12:00 | date=28 March 2023 }}

As of 2019, the ROC Army's current tube artillery in service consists of M109A2 and M109A5 systems, 8 inch M110A2 self-propelled howitzers and 155mm M114 towed howitzers. These systems have exceeded their service life with the oldest being the M114, which has been in service for 68 years, while the youngest artillery system, the M109A5, has been in service for 21 years. The last artillery system that entered service is the M109A5s, which are ordered in 1996 and taken delivery in 1998.

The ROC Army also maintains a large force of rocket artillery vehicles. There are a handful of Kung Feng VI 117mm rocket launchers still in service, but these are being phased out in favour of the more capable RT-2000. Testing is underway for long-range rockets capable of being fired by the RT-2000 from Taiwan and reaching inland targets on the Chinese mainland.{{Cite web |last=Yeo |first=Mike |date=2019-09-27 |title=Taiwan looks to boost artillery forces to counter China |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2019/09/27/taiwan-looks-to-boost-artillery-forces-to-counter-china/ |access-date=2024-05-17 |website=Defense News |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2021-03-03 |title=Taiwan fires up missile tests as China starts month of military drills |url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3123885/south-china-sea-taiwan-fires-missile-tests-coincide-beijings |access-date=2024-05-17 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}} In 2021, Taiwan purchased 11 M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) from the U.S. to be delivered in 2024, along with the first batch of M1A2T Abrams tanks.{{Cite web |title=US to initiate deliveries of Taiwan's M1A2 Abrams tanks, HIMARS in 2024 |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/us-to-initiate-deliveries-of-taiwans-m1a2-abrams-tanks-himars-in-2024 |access-date=2024-05-17 |website=Janes.com |date=4 March 2024 |language=en}} A second order of 18 HIMARS is expected to be delivered in 2026.

= Gallery =

File:ROCA Special Force Team Line up at Armor School 20130302.jpg|ROC Army sharpshooter team

File:ROCAFrogman ARB 04.jpg|ROC Army 101st Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion Training during Amphibious Landing Exercise

File:Frogman.jpg|A military frogman of the 101st Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion

File:Chemical Safety Persons Cleaning Truck Display at Armor School Right Rear View 20130302.jpg|Chemical Safety Persons Cleaning Truck

File:ROCA Emergency Command Car Display at Chengkungling Rear View 20131012.jpg|ROCA Emergency Command Car

File:ROCA Microwave Broadcasting Van Display at Chengkungling Ground Rear Right View 20131012.jpg|ROCA Microwave Broadcasting Van (Ford F250 chassis)

File:TRA Nanzih Station by billy1125 (4).jpg|Military equipment on a train

File:ROCA Satellite Telecommunication Vehicle 20111105.jpg|ROCA Satellite Telecommunication Vehicle (Ford E-Series van)

File:ROCA Mobile Water Filter Truck 20120602a.jpg|ROCA Mobile Water Filter Truck (Mercedes-Benz Actros chassis)

File:MAN 35ton Heavy Transporter Display in Chengkungling 20111009a.jpg|MAN 35ton Heavy Transporter

File:ROCA Special Assault Vehicle Display at CKS Memorial Hall Square Front Left View 20140607.jpg|ROCA Special Assault Vehicle

File:ROCA Type 97 NBC Detect Truck Display at No.11 Pier of Zhongzheng Naval Base 20130504a.jpg|ROCA Type 97 NBC Detection (Daimler Truck Unimog) Truck

File:ROCA AH-1W Display at Hukou Camp 20111105a.jpg|ROCA AH-1W

File:ROCA UH-1H 379 Taking off from ROCMA Ground 20140531.jpg|An ROCA UH-1H 379 taking off from ROCMA Ground

File:03.30 「臺北市106年全民防衛暨2017臺北世界大學運動會災害防救及金華演習」,演練空、地立體攻堅 33578031842 d989f4acd4 o.jpg|UH-60M

File:Type 86 carbine.jpg|Type 86 carbine

File:Generator of T-82 20mm Twin Cannon 20121013.jpg|Generator of T-82 20mm Twin Cannon

File:Engineering Equitment of Center Taiwan Resverse Training Center Display in Chengkungling Ground 20121006.jpg|Engineering Equitment of Center Taiwan Reserve Training Center

File:LAADS Housed in S-280 Shelter on Truck 20120211.jpg|LAADS Housed in S-280 Shelter on Truck

File:ROCA Double-modes Infrared Biological Detector Display at Tainan AFB Apron 20130810.jpg|ROCA Double-modes Infrared Biological Detector

File:T4-86 Light Sterilizer with Bath Screen Display at Armor School 20130302.jpg|T4-86 Light Sterilizer with Bath Screen

File:Taipei Taiwan Presidential-Office-Building-10.jpg|Wire dispenser

File:Visitors with ROCA Officer Photoing above Engineering Bridge 20121006.jpg|Visitors with ROCA Officer Photoing above Engineering Bridge

File:Military Light Tactical Vehicle Type B Display at ROCMA Ground 20160604a.jpg|Military Light Tactical Vehicle Type B

File:ROCA M88A1 RV Display in CCK Air Base 20111112a.jpg|ROCA M88A1 RV

File:ROCA Point Defense Array Radar System Truck Display at Chengkungling Ground 20150606c.jpg|CS/MPQ-90 on a Navistar 7000 series truck

File:Bistatic Radar Passive Receiver System Display at Military Academy Ground 20140531a.jpg|Bistatic Radar Passive Receiver System Display at Military Academy Ground

File:陸劍二野戰防空飛彈系統.jpg|Ground based Sky Sword 2 battery

File:CM-32 Yunpao APC Display at Hsinchu AFB 20151121a.jpg|CM-32 APC

File:馬英九總統視導CM-34 30公厘機砲裝步戰鬥車.jpg|CM-32, 30mm Bushmaster cannon armed variant of the CM-32

File:ROCA OH-58D 636 Taking off from ROCMA Ground 20140531a.jpg|OH-58D Kiowa scout helicopter

See also

References

{{Reflist}}