In response to media reports that "M41D tanks arrived in Kinmen to replace obsolete tanks, but there are rumors about safety concerns", Army Command stated today (1^st) that the content of the reports do not match the facts. The replacement of M41D tanks is based on actual needs of outlying islands, and these tanks are handed over after a whole vehicle inspection and strict testing are completed. They clarified as follows:

1. Kinmen Command has ordered replacement M41D tanks in response to the threat of the enemy and the type of warfare, mainly in consideration of the size, terrain, and geomorphology of outlying islands, so the tank model structure can be appropriately adjusted to strengthen mobility, and attack, strike, and night combat capabilities. All in all, the replacement meets the actual needs of defense operations of outlying islands.
2. As a matter of fact, the brake system of the M41D tank is believed to provide enhanced mechanics. Command already completed performance tests by the Ordinance Preparation and Development Center before these tanks were transferred. As such, these tanks are only transferred after they have met the required standards so that there are no concerns with its braking system.
3. The Armed Forces will continue to review and revise the organization and equipment for troops deployed at outlying islands each year depending on the threats from the enemy, defense operation requirements, and the acquisition schedule of weapons and equipment to enhance the overall defense capabilities. Command appeals to our nationals to rest assured and calls for their support for national defense policy.

Lieutenant General Yang, An, Army spokesperson, 0965-295908