TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's government announced the finalization of procurement with the United States for three National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS, 國家先進地對空飛彈系統) on Monday (Feb. 10). The systems are equipped with 123 extended-range AMRAAM-ER missiles and are expected to fill the gap between Taiwan's current missile systems by offering a range of up to 50 kilometers.
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) Legislator Wang Ting-yu (王定宇) disclosed on Facebook earlier that day that Taiwan expects to integrate these systems with existing U.S.-made equipment, such as the MIM-104 Patriot missiles, and avenger air defense systems, within six years.
The Norwegian-designed NASAMS, modified by Raytheon to function as a surface-to-air missile, can effectively counter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) helicopters, cruise missiles, Unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), and fixed-wing aircraft. Each NASAMS unit can pair with three to four missile launchers, though operational efficiency will depend on rigorous training and exercises.
The acquisition, announced by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on Oct. 25, 2024, includes three Sentinel radar systems and AN/TPS-77 and AN/TPS-78 radars. Air Force officials revealed plans to retire some outdated equipment, including the Oerlikon 35 mm twin cannon, and AIM-7 Sparrow missile systems, to accommodate the new missile forces.
