Taiwan highlights air defense capabilities amid budget cuts

TAICHUNG (TVBS News) — The Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) highlighted Taiwan's advanced air defense capabilities, focusing on its PAC-3 missile systems during a media event on Wednesday (Jan. 8). This demonstration at the Air Force Air Defense and Missile Command marks the first for the annual Lunar New Year enhanced combat readiness drill. The 795th Air Defense Brigade's 633rd Battalion showcased the Patriot missile system outside Hangar 6, while the 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing displayed the F-CK-1A MLU Indigenous Defense Fighter in an aircraft shelter.

Developed by U.S.-based RTX Raytheon, the Patriot system intercepts aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles. It operates on three levels based on mission requirements. The Engagement Control Station (ECS) relays radar data to the battalion's processing center. Components include a launcher station, tactical control center, AN/MPQ-65 radar set, antenna mast group, and a 150-kilowatt electric power plant.

The U.S. Army's M983 tractor transports the launcher station, which accommodates four PAC-2+ or 16 PAC-3 missiles. Towed by an M983, the AN/MPQ-65 radar has a 120-degree search range and can guide up to 18 missiles simultaneously. The ECS, mounted on an FMTV truck, processes 100 target data batches while offering nuclear, biological, and chemical protection.

The antenna mast group, also on an FMTV, extends its four antennas to 28 meters and functions in winds up to 8 kilometers per hour. Mounted on an M977 truck, the electric power plant supplies 208/120 VAC, three-phase, 400 Hz power for 9.5 hours.

Addressing concerns over potential cuts to Taiwan’s defense budget, MND spokesperson Sun Li-fang (孫利方) stressed that "the planning will include whether relevant weapons need to be purchased or existing weapons and equipment need to be acquired in quantity, all in response to the threat of hostile situations and within the limits of the country's financial resources." With nine Patriot batteries across Taiwan, the nation eagerly awaits the latest PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) system from the U.S.