TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a bid to highlight Taiwan's ability to intercept incoming air targets and respond to increasing PLA threats, the Defense Ministry invited the media to witness a live-firing of surface-to-air missiles on Tuesday (Aug. 20). The demonstration featured the US Patriot PAC-2 system and Taiwan's Sky Bow 3 system, marking the first such public display since 2012.
Despite the MIM-104 Patriot’s renowned capabilities to counter incoming missiles, it has not been deployed for this purpose in recent drills. The last interception practice with the Patriot system took place in 2017.
Brigade Commander Kao Shu-li (高淑莉) from the 794th Air Defense Brigade of the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) explained that the focus of today's exercise was on anti-aircraft warfare and replicating real combat scenarios through simulations.
Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) spokesperson Sun Li-fang (孫立方) noted that some of Taiwan’s missiles are sensitive or confidential, thus specific types were not detailed during the demonstration. Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) also visited the Jiupeng site, where reports confirmed that Hsiung Feng missiles were test-fired earlier in the day.
Commander Cheng Yung-ju (鄭詠儒) of Taiwan's 613th Air Force Battalion emphasized the importance of battlefield simulations. He explained that these exercises help soldiers and officers become more aware of time constraints when commands are given. Cheng added that such drills also test their ability to execute commands and respond effectively to emergencies.
The demonstration is part of Taiwan's ongoing efforts to showcase its military capabilities amid growing regional tensions. The live-firing exercise aims to reassure both domestic and international observers of Taiwan’s readiness and advanced air defense systems.