The Ministry of National Defense issues a press release clarifying media reports that "the Armaments Bureau held bids to purchase parts for the Clouded Leopard for the Taiwan Infantry Fighting Vehicle (TIFV), but it turns out the parts were made in C

In response to media reports that "the Armaments Bureau held bids to purchase parts for the Clouded Leopard for the Taiwan Infantry Fighting Vehicle (TIFV), but it turns out the parts were made in China", the Ministry of National Defense (MND) clarifies today (9^th) as follows:

1. The CM32/33 Wheeled Armored Vehicle was deployed for service in 2011, more than 10 years ago. The 209th Plant of the Production and Manufacturing Center of Army Logistics Command is commissioned to procure parts and accessories such as the "Upper Steering Pin" and others. Furthermore, these vehicles are sent back to the plant in batches for overhaul according to the annual repair plan, and they are not to be replaced with materials and parts supplied by Chung-Hsin Electric & Machinery Manufacturing Corporation.。
2. Based on the consumption experience of the eight-wheeled armored vehicle by the Production and Manufacturing Center of the Army, it will convene regular meetings for the project every month. Currently, the supply of spare parts is sufficient, and there are no such oil leaks or damaged parts due to poor availability as described by the media.
3. As for the case that Chung-Hsin Electric & Machinery Manufacturing Corporation was suspected of violating the procurement contract by mixing products made in mainland, the case is currently being tried and heard at Taichung District Court. Furthermore, the MND has further stipulated clauses in various procurement contracts to strictly prohibit mainland-funded enterprises as well as mainland-made parts and accessories that may penetrate the supply chain.
4. The CM32/33 wheeled armored vehicle is believed to be an important weapon independently developed by the Armed Forces. Given that its complete maintenance system, sufficient supply of parts and accessories, and availability rate is higher than MND standards, the armored vehicle is capable of meeting the needs of ground forces following years of battle training verification. As such, the MND urges nationals to continue offering their support for the determination of the Armed Forces to build up the military in preparation for combat readiness and national defense.