TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the 39th Han Kuang exercises approach in Taiwan, Clouded Leopard armored vehicles can be seen conducting drills ahead of the annual military showcase.
Amid rising cross-strait tensions and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Taiwan is also closely examining its armored vehicles and tanks. In particular, the comparison between wheeled tanks with lighter armor and those with tank tracks is under scrutiny. The latter boasts heavier armor and slower speed but more substantial firepower.
Former Commander of the Army's Special Forces Headquarters, Kuo Li-sheng pointed out, "In our future defense strategies, we cannot avoid urban warfare."
"Under such circumstances, the Clouded Leopard armored vehicles can be easily utilized, while the main battle tanks are often limited by the terrain." He explained that the speed discrepancy could hinder cooperation in combatting enemies together.
While the Clouded Leopard vehicles can easily navigate various terrains and city blocks at 80 kilometers per hour during battle, their lighter armor may prove insufficient against larger tanks deployed by enemy forces.
This has led to a long-standing division among military experts regarding using lighter armored vehicles versus more robust tanks in the event of an attack. "Tanks are not solely employed for offensive or anti-airborne defense purposes," Former Commander of the 542nd Armor Brigade Yu Bei-chen said.
He remarked that robust armor protection is essential for coastal attacks, and aiding in the clearance of patrols ahead of the infantry underscores their necessity.
Supporters of both types of war vehicles continue to engage in an ongoing debate, weighing the pros and cons. However, Yu urges the military not to lose sight of the ultimate goal.
He emphasizes that to defend the nation successfully, Taiwan must effectively utilize armored vehicles and tanks to maintain speed and firepower. "In this age of defense, we should discard all our prejudices and concentrate on winning the hypothetical war."
