Taiwan’s Army is restructuring its artillery modernization efforts to prioritize long-range precision strike capabilities, opting to procure additional HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems while initiating plans to acquire the latest M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzers from the United States.
Under the “Ruiting Project,” Taiwan initially planned to purchase 40 M109A6 self-propelled howitzers for $560 million (TWD 17.2 billion) between 2020 and 2024. However, shifting cross-strait security concerns and updated military evaluations led Taiwan to prioritize asymmetric warfare capabilities and long-range strike systems.
The decision follows recommendations from joint Taiwan-U.S. military assessments, which highlighted the need to counter China’s concentrated forces along its southeastern coastline. A key outcome of these evaluations was the procurement of 29 HIMARS systems under the “Honglei Project.” The first batch of 11 systems has already arrived in Taiwan, with delivery of the remaining 18 units expected by the end of 2026.
As part of its artillery upgrade, the Taiwanese Army has now begun formal procedures to acquire the M109A7 Paladin, the latest version of the self-propelled howitzer, under the 2026 defense budget. The M109A7 replaces the older M109A6 system, which Taiwan had originally sought to procure.
U.S. officials informed Taiwan that production lines for the M109A6 had already been phased out in favor of the M109A7, currently being adopted by the U.S. Army. By incorporating Taiwan’s order into existing U.S. Army contracts, costs could be reduced, and delivery timelines streamlined. Despite the wait time, the M109A7’s advanced capabilities are seen as a worthwhile investment for Taiwan’s defense needs.
The Paladin M109A7 offers enhanced mobility, survivability, and firepower. Built with a redesigned chassis and upgraded electronics, it improves on the legacy systems with better operational efficiency and combat readiness. The move comes as Taiwan’s existing M109A2 and A5 howitzers, in service for over 30 years, require urgent replacement to meet modern battlefield demands.
Taiwan’s emphasis on long-range precision strike systems aligns with its broader asymmetric defense strategy, aimed at countering the growing military capabilities of the People’s Liberation Army. The HIMARS systems, capable of precision strikes on targets up to 300 kilometers away, are seen as a critical tool for suppressing Chinese military deployments and staging areas.
While the acquisition of M109A7 howitzers remains crucial for enhancing artillery firepower, Taiwan’s shift toward HIMARS reflects the evolving nature of its defense priorities. As geopolitical tensions in the Taiwan Strait intensify, this procurement strategy underscores Taiwan’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces with advanced, cost-effective systems capable of addressing current and future threats.
Delivery of the M109A7 Paladins is expected to commence after 2026, ensuring a steady buildup of Taiwan’s firepower capabilities in tandem with the ongoing integration of HIMARS systems.
