Taiwan has taken a significant step toward clarifying its long-term defense priorities by releasing a detailed list of weapon systems planned under a proposed 1.25-trillion NTD special defense budget. Covering the 2026–2033 period, the initiative seeks to improve readiness, expand asymmetric warfare capabilities, and strengthen local defense manufacturing in response to escalating regional security challenges. The disclosure followed intense legislative scrutiny, as opposition parties had blocked the bill over transparency concerns. Defense officials identified seven major capability areas within the package, including precision fires, long-range strike systems, uncrewed platforms, missile defenses, AI-enabled military tools, sustainment capacity, and joint Taiwan-US development programs. Precision artillery is a top priority, with M109A7 howitzers supported by large stocks of advanced munitions and logistics vehicles. Long-range strike investments center on HIMARS launchers and a mix of guided rockets and tactical missiles, expanding Taiwan’s ability to hold adversary forces at risk. Unmanned systems feature prominently, ranging from loitering munitions and ISR drones to mass-produced UAVs for coastal surveillance and attack roles, complemented by uncrewed surface vessels and counter-drone solutions. The package also strengthens anti-armor defenses through Javelin and TOW missile systems, while AI-driven networks are intended to accelerate intelligence sharing and decision-making. Beyond weapons, the plan emphasizes wartime resilience through expanded domestic production of ammunition, explosives, armored vehicles, and protective equipment. Emergency funding for key munitions addresses near-term readiness gaps as Taiwan prepares for expanded local output.
