Taipei is pursuing the development of more affordable air defense munitions as China expands its use of low-cost weapons in potential large-scale strike scenarios, Taiwan News reported.
According to Lee Shih-chiang of the National Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology, planning is already in progress, with testing scheduled to begin next year. The effort focuses on fielding economical interceptors for lower-end threats, allowing high-end missile systems to be reserved for more advanced targets.
This initiative aligns with Taiwan’s broader plan to increase defense spending to around $40 billion over the next eight years, aimed at enhancing deterrence capabilities amid rising tensions with China.
Concurrently, Taiwan is developing its “T-Dome” layered air defense concept, which is expected to be completed next year. The system is designed to provide comprehensive coverage across multiple altitude layers while also countering long-range rocket attacks.
A key component of the system is a sensor-to-shooter integration network that accelerates response times between detection and engagement. It combines locally developed systems such as Strong Bow, Sky Bow III, and Sky Sword II with US-provided Patriot missile system and radar systems.
In addition, Taiwan recently approved the purchase of 102 Patriot PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptors valued at approximately $637 million. Plans are also underway to procure nine more National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System units, supplementing three previously ordered systems that will be integrated into the T-Dome network.
