2019/09/05
Army Headquarters Released a Press Release Explaining the Matter of “Certain Figure from AIT Claiming that the USA Is Not Selling M1 Abrams Battle Tanks to Taiwan”.
AIT Not Buying M1 Abrams Battle Tanks? Army Headquarters Comes Forward to Refute.
The media coverages of “Certain Figure from AIT Claiming that the USA Is Not Selling M1 Abrams Battle Tanks to Taiwan” and “Bridges in Taiwan May Not Sustain the Weight of M1 Abrams Battle Tanks” contain severe deviation from the truth, and the Army Headquarters has provided the following explanations today (5th):
1. Army’s procurement on new models of battle tanks is considered and planned according to enemy threats and combat requirements, and follows military sales procedure, with on-site investigation by AIT and USA teams, then undergoes rigorous and comprehensive evaluation, before receiving the approval from the United States Department of Defense and the administrative decision making department for sales. Military sales are conducted between two governments rather than individuals, and the headquarters solemnly refutes the “false message” mentioned in media coverages, including “Certain Figure from AIT” and “USA Not Selling M1 Abrams Battle Tanks to Taiwan”.
2. In terms of defensive combat application, when cooperating with the marshalling, adjustment, and planning of the “Joint Service Camp” in the future, the M1A2T battle tanks will possess “Consistent Functions of Peacekeeping and Combat” and implement the reliable combat capability in a faster pace during comprehensive strike missions, in order to achieve “Beach Strand Enemy Annihilation” and prevent enemies from taking over Taiwan.
3. The new model of battle tanks weigh approximately 63 metric tons, and have been tested and evaluated by a commissioned professional unit in accordance with existing bridges and roads in Taiwan, with no abnormalities found regarding endurance. In addition, standard carriers will also be purchased in accordance with the specifications from the Ministry of Transportation and Communications to establish necessary transportation energy.
4. The Army Headquarters emphasized that the M1A2T battle tanks are a critical combat force for the defensive combat over the territory, as well as an important indicator for national defense construction. The headquarters hereby requests all citizens to support the national defense affairs and the acquisition of weapons and equipment, see from the consideration of the country’s overall benefit and safety, and refrain from speculating false information that would mislead the public.
Army Spokesperson - Lieutenant Chien, Shih-Wei (0965-295880)