Taiwan Develops New Missiles To Counter China's Threat

10 Décembre 2014 , Rédigé par ileridefense Publié dans #Asie

LUNGTAN, TAIWAN — Taiwan arms developers said Tuesday that new surface-to-air missiles would defend its airspace for “up to 20 years” as it aims to update weaponry to counter a perceived military threat from China.

Production of the Tienkung III (Sky Bow III), the most advanced model in a line of locally-developed air defense missiles, is slated to last from 2015 until 2024. Parliament recently approved the budget for the Tw$74.8 billion ($2.5 billion) project.

“Together with US-made Patriot missiles, Tienkung III system will guard Taiwan’s airspace in the next 15 to 20 years,” said the official, surnamed Huang.

Huang declined to give specifications of the new missile, aimed at replacing the aging US-made Hawk missiles — but media speculated that Tienkung III has a range of up to 200 kilometers (124 miles).

The project is part of the island’s efforts to build an air defense shield against any Chinese attacks. According to Taiwan’s defense ministry, China has more than 1,500 ballistic and cruise missiles trained on the island.

Taiwan split from China in 1949 after a civil war, but China sees it as part of its territory awaiting reunification — by force if necessary. Ties between China and Taiwan have improved markedly since Beijing-friendly President Ma Ying-jeou took office in 2008 and strengthened trade and other links, but fears of a Chinese invasion remain.

Source : Defense News/Asia

Relayé par : Alix Carlier

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