Taiwan Bolsters Defenses with First Shipment of Harpoon Anti-Ship Missiles

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – Taiwan news outlets are reporting the first batch of 100 land-based Harpoon anti-ship missile systems purchased from the United States has arrived in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, marking a significant milestone in Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to bolster its coastal defense capabilities.

This news comes as democratically governed Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has reported increased Chinese military activity. Beijing seeks to assert its sovereignty claims, while Taipei has been bolstering its deterrence capabilities.

According to the Liberty Times, the initial shipment – part of a larger defense package – was unloaded at Kaohsiung Port on Friday. While details regarding the specific components received remain undisclosed, this delivery is part of a larger defense procurement approved by the U.S. in 2020. The deal includes Harpoon Block II missiles, Harpoon Captive Air Test Missiles, spare parts, launcher transporter units, and radar trucks.

The first phase of deliveries, expected to be completed by 2026, will consist of 128 missiles. The final phase, slated for completion by the end of 2028, will bring the total number of delivered missiles to 400.

Strengthening Taiwan’s Defense Posture

The Harpoon Coastal Defense Systems will be strategically deployed at various locations across Taiwan, enhancing the nation’s ability to respond to potential maritime threats, particularly from the Chinese Navy. One of the key bases will be in Pingtung, a site deemed crucial for fortifying defenses against any potential blockade attempts in the west and southwest regions of Taiwan.

The construction of the Pingtung base is projected to take approximately 1,100 working days and is expected to be operational by 2027. The Kaohsiung base, scheduled to be completed in late 2025 or early 2026 after 580 working days, along with other coastal bunkers, will also play a critical role in Taiwan’s coastal defense strategy.

Missile Testing

Taiwan began showing off its missile firepower last month by launching a battery of surface-to-air missiles in front of reporters during a visit to a sensitive test site on a remote part of the island’s southeastern coast.

That test – part of Taiwan’s defense strategy that includes a broader integration of different missile systems – included both U.S.-made Patriot and Taiwan-made Sky Bow III missiles into the skies from bases on land, while a warship off the coast fired a RIM-66 Standard missiles.

New Command for Enhanced Coastal Defense

To manage and coordinate the operations of these advanced missile systems, Taiwan plans to establish a new Coastal Defense Command in 2026. This command will oversee six bases housing both the U.S.-supplied and domestically produced anti-ship missiles, significantly enhancing the nation’s ability to deter and defend against maritime threats from China.

It is, however, important to note the missiles sold to Taiwan are not the US Navy’s most powerful anti-ship missiles. The Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) is Lockheed Martin’s advanced weapon designed to replace the Harpoon. Developed by DARPA, it autonomously navigates complex defenses for long-range precision strikes against naval threats. High demand has led Lockheed to open a second production line, aiming for 1,000 units annually. While the Air Force plans to buy 27 LRASMs in FY2024, this number is expected to increase. However, the hope remains that this stockpile won’t be necessary, as conflict with major naval powers could be catastrophic.

This delivery marks the beginning of a significant upgrade to Taiwan’s coastal defense, ensuring the nation is better equipped to protect its sovereignty and territorial waters amid increasing regional tensions.

Related Video – How Do Harpoon Missiles Sink Ships?

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up