TAIPEI (TVBS News) — China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson called on the U.S. on Monday (Dec. 16) to cease arming Taiwan, stating that Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) does not exist. Taiwan has bolstered its defense capabilities by acquiring 108 M1A2T tanks from the U.S. The first batch of 38 tanks arrived on Sunday and began transportation to the Army Armor Training Command (陸軍裝甲兵訓練指揮部) in Hukou (湖口) early Monday.
Taiwan's MND aims to enhance its military readiness through this procurement. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded critically to the arms deal. Spokesperson Lin Jian (林劍) reiterated China's opposition to U.S.-Taiwan military ties and stated that the U.S. policy on arms sales to Taiwan remains consistent. Lin urged the U.S. to adhere to the one-China principle and the Three Joint Communiqués (中美三個聯合公報), emphasizing that supporting Taiwan independence with weapons is unacceptable.
Taiwan prepared for the M1A2T tanks' arrival by sending 84 instructors to the U.S. for a 350-day training program. These instructors returned late last month, equipped to train local forces. The M1A2T tanks, while slightly less armored than their U.S. counterparts, offer improved mobility and fuel efficiency, aligning with Taiwan's strategic needs.