TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) remarked on Tuesday (Nov. 19) that the procurement of any weaponry must consider enemy threats and defense operational needs. A recent report revealed that the Air Force plans to expand its capabilities by adding a new Patriot missile battalion equipped with the PAC-3 MSE (愛國者三型增程型飛彈), primarily to defend the Hualien and Taitung regions.
Currently, the Air Force operates three Patriot missile battalions featuring PAC-2 GEM and PAC-3 missiles.
The new air defense 634 Battalion will include three PAC-3 systems, bringing the total number of PAC-3 systems to 12, matching the number of domestically produced Tien Kung III missiles. Ministry spokesperson Sun Li-fang (孫立方) emphasized the importance of considering enemy threats and defense needs when adjusting troop formations and procuring weaponry.
Sun noted that details cannot be disclosed due to operational security concerns of the armed forces. The expansion reflects the ongoing strategic emphasis on strengthening Taiwan's defense capabilities amid regional tensions.
