3.1 US Approved Arms Sales
3.2.3 Land Defense
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search and rescue, medical evacuation, personnel transfer, surveillance and
reconnaissance, post surveillance, post attack damage assessment and naval gunfire spotting (USS Hornet, 2015). According to the Royal New Zealand Navy, it is usually armed with homing torpedoes, depth charges, Maverick air to surface missiles, and an M60 machine gun (2015). The mobility and distance of the Seasprite allows it to venture further and faster than the Knox frigates, thus enforcing a large danger zone for enemy submarines.
3.2.3 Land Defense
Missiles
In May 1997, US Congress permitted 1,786 TOW 2A guided missiles, 114 TOW
launchers and 100 Humvees for sale. The TOW (Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire command-link guided) Missile System is the premier long-range, heavy assault-precision anti-armor, anti-fortification and anti-amphibious landing weapon system used
throughout the world today (Raytheon, 2015). It consists of a tripod, traversing unit, missile guidance set, launch tube, optical sight, battery assembly and any of five missile variations (US Army, 2007). The TOW missile system also includes a thermal sight that provides a capability for operations at night, and is mounted on various platforms including the Humvee and the AH-1F Cobra helicopter –and can even be operated in a dismounted ground mode (US Army, 2007). The TOW is guided to its target merely by the gunner keeping the cross-hairs on the target, making it easy to use (US Army, 2015).
Vehicles
In 1990 and 1996, Taiwan was allowed to purchase a total of 410 M60A3 tanks (Kan, 2014). These approved sales were aimed to strengthen the Taiwanese army with increased heavy weaponry. According to Dixon’s Veteran’s Memorial Park, the M60 tank is designed to function as one of the main assault vehicles of an armor division
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(2015). The main armament is capable of defeating enemy armored and is suitable as an assault weapon in offensive operations (Dixon Veteran’s Memorial Park, 2015). The vehicle can be employed at night and under conditions of limited visibility, and excels in open country or conventional warfare (Dixon Veteran’s Memorial Park, 2015).
Aircraft
In July 1997, Taiwan was allowed 21 AH-1W SuperCobra helicopters (Kan, 2014).
These are formidable aircraft that are still in use today by the US military. They provide close air support and excel in ground attack coordination (US Marines, 2015). They are able to project multiple missiles, rockets and 20mm cannon fire on targets otherwise inaccessible; and provide the precision, armament and tactical situational awareness to fight in close proximity with ground troops (US Marines, 2015). The helicopter is equipped with enhanced navigation displays that distinguish friends from enemies, data transfer systems that deliver real-time aerial reconnaissance to soldiers on the ground and composite rotor blades and tail booms that can withstand 23mm cannon fire (US Marines, 2015). The SuperCobra is a deadly aircraft that could support Taiwanese troops from above, as well as conduct independent missions in the case of a Chinese attack.
In September 1997, 12 Kiowa Armed Scout helicopters were approved for Taiwan to purchase (Kan, 2014). These helicopters excel in conducting armed
reconnaissance, security, target acquisition and designation, command and control, light attack and defensive air combat missions in support of combat and contingency
operations (Military.com, 2015). The Kiowa Warrior operates by day and night and is capable of target acquisition and engagement in adverse weather conditions
(Military.com, 2015). This deadly aircraft has a highly accurate navigation system that provides precise target location that can be sent digitally to other aircraft or artillery via its advanced digital communications system (Military.com, 2015). It is equipped with two universal quick-change weapons pylons, and each pylon can be armed with a variety of projectiles, or one .50 caliber fixed forward machine gun (Military.com, 2015). The armament systems combine to provide anti-armor, anti-personnel, and anti-aircraft capabilities at standoff ranges (Military.com, 2015).
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3.3 Chen Shui Bian
3.3.1 Air Defense
Missiles
In continuance of improving Taiwan’s defensive strategy, numerous amounts of various missiles were offered to the island. These missiles had increased capabilities and more firepower than its predecessors, thus giving Taiwan certain military advantages over the PRC.
In September 2000 and February 2007, Taiwan received permission to purchase a total of 418 AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range, Air-to-Air missile (AMRAAMs) (Kan, 2014). President Clinton allowed the sale with the understanding that the missiles would be kept in storage on US territory and transferred later to Taiwan, if/When the PLA acquires a similar Russian missiles, or threatens to attack Taiwan (Kan, 2014). On July 1, 2002, the Washington Times reported that two PLA SU-30 fighters test fired AA-12 medium range air-to-air missiles acquired from Russia (Kan, 2014). By the end of 2002, the Bush Administration authorized delivery of the AMRAAMs to Taiwan and briefed its Air Force on ground-launched AMRAAMs (Kan, 2014). The AIM-120 missile is a new generation air-to-air missile that has an all-weather, beyond-visual-range capability; and is capable of providing both air-to-air and air defense support (Military.com, 2015). Once the missile closes in on the target, its active radar guides it to an intercept (Military.com, 2015). AMRAAM-equipped fighters can attack several targets simultaneously
(Military.com, 2015). With this new age missile, the Taiwanese air force could prevent Chinese fighters from encroaching on Taiwan’s airspace.
In September 2001 and February 2007, 275 AGM-65G Maverick missiles were approved for sale (Kan, 2014). The Maverick is a tactical, air-to-surface guided missile designed for close air support, interdiction and defense suppression mission (US Air Force, 2003). With a heavyweight penetrator warhead, it provides stand-off capability
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and high probability of strike against a wide range of tactical targets, including armor, air defenses, ships, transportation equipment and fuel storage facilities (US Air Force, 2003). As many as six Mavericks can be carried by an aircraft, usually in three round, underwing clusters, allowing the pilot to engage several targets on one mission (US Air Force, 2003). The missile also has "launch-and-leave" capability that enables a pilot to fire it and immediately take evasive action or attack another target as the missile guides itself to the target (US Air Force, 2003). The Maverick’s compatibility with aircraft allows the Taiwanese air force to provide essential support for ground troops in repelling a Chinese amphibious assault.
In September 2002 and October 2005, The US allowed 192 AIM 9M sidewinders for purchase (Kan, 2014). Sidewinders are supersonic, heat-seeking, air-to-air missile carried by fighter aircraft (US Air Force, 2004). It has a high-explosive warhead and an infrared heat-seeking guidance system, enabling the missile to home in on target aircraft engine exhaust (US Air Force, 2004). The M model has improved defense against
infrared countermeasures, enhanced background discrimination capability, and a reduced-smoke rocket motor; increasing its ability to locate and lock-on a target and decrease the missile's chances for detection (US Air Force, 2004).
In September 2002, 449 AGM-114M3 hellfire II anti-armor missiles were approved for sale to be equipped on Taiwan’s SuperCobra and Kiowa helicopters (Kan, 2014). These missiles provide precision striking power against tanks, structures, bunkers and helicopters; and can be guided to the target either from inside the aircraft or by lasers outside the aircraft (Military.com, 2015). According to Military.com, the Hellfire missile is capable of defeating any known tank in the world today (2015). This type of firepower is invaluable for Taiwan when confronting a possible PRC land assault consisting of many armored vehicles.
In October 2005, 5 AIM-7M Sparrow missiles were allowed for procurement (Kan, 2014). The Sparrow is a radar-guided, air-to-air missile with a high-explosive warhead. The 7M variant is the most current model and has improved reliability and performance at low altitudes and in electronic countermeasures environments (US Air Force, 2003). It has all-weather, all-altitude operational capability and can attack high-performance aircraft and missiles from any direction (US Air Force, 2003).
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In November 2007, Taiwan was allowed advanced modifications to its Patriot air defense missile system with the Patriot configuration 2 ground systems (Kan, 2014). This upgrade would enhance Taiwan’s defensive capability, according to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (Hsiao, 2007).
3.3.2 Naval Defense
Missiles
In September 2000 and August 2007, Taiwan received approval to purchase 131 RGM-84L and AGM-RGM-84L Block II Harpoon anti-ship missiles (Kan, 2014). The Harpoon Block II incorporates key guidance technologies: the integrated global positioning
system/inertial navigation system (GPS/INS) from the Joint Direct Attack Munition and a software, mission computer, GPS antenna and receiver (Boeing, 2015). This variant of the Harpoon missile was more accurate and maneuverable than the original model.
In September 2007, the US released 144 SM-2 Block IIIA standard air defense missiles for sale—to be fitted on Kidd class destroyers (Kan, 2014). These updated versions provide superior anti-air warfare and limited anti-surface warfare capability against advanced anti-ship missiles and aircraft out to 90 nautical miles and an altitude of 65,000 feet (Raytheon, 2015). Tail controls and solid rocket motor propulsion allows the missile to engage speed maneuvering threats at significant ranges; while its high-technology active radar target detection device and directional warhead ensures successful target destruction (Raytheon, 2015).
Vessels
In April 2001, Taiwan was permitted to purchase 8 diesel submarines (Kan, 2014). This came as a tremendous surprise to many observers, as submarines were arguably offensive weapons. As stipulated by the TRA, the US was required to provide Taiwan with
defensive arms only. According to Sheng Li Jun, this was the first time that the US had
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circumvented its TRA under which US arms sales to Taiwan should be restricted to purely defensive ones (2002, p. 98). Acquiring submarines would greatly increase the island’s anti-submarine warfare, as China’s submarine fleet continues to expand.
According to James P. Doran, “Should Taiwan’s surface fleet be blitzed…a fleet of surviving submarines could still possibly allow Taiwan to thwart a Chinese blockade by stealthily attacking the surface ships that would enforce that blockade” (US Congress, 2001, p.5). Taiwan desperately needed underwater vessels to expand its naval
capabilities.
However, there was a major problem with Bush’s approved submarine sale: the US no longer produced diesel submarines. Therefore, the Department of Defense discussed options for a Foreign Military Sales program for eight boats with US and foreign companies and Taiwan (Kan, 2014, p. 11). With the aid of a foreign country, Taiwan could finally acquire its own submarines. In November 2001, seven companies submitted bids to the Department of the Navy, including Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, Germany’s HDW (Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft), and the Netherlands’
RDM (Rotterdamsche Droogdok Maatschappij) (Kan, 2014, p. 12). The Taiwanese submarine project had attracted many competing companies, but ultimately, bidding was narrowed down to only US companies.
The proposed submarine sale became at risk in 2003 when the US and Taiwan reached an impasse over the program start-up costs—the US Navy estimated a cost of
$333 million, while Taiwan offered a budget of $28.5 million (Kan, 2014, p. 12). With a limited budget, Taipei found it difficult to match the high prices set by Washington. A team from the US Navy’s International Program Office arrived in Taipei in October 2003, for further talks on whether Taiwan will procure submarines (Kan, 2014, p. 12).
Because of the mounting costs of purchasing foreign built vessels, Taiwan soon became interested in domestic production. However, Deputy Secretary of Defense Wolfowitz told a visiting Taiwanese legislative delegation on June 21, 2004, that the Bush
Administration approved Taiwan’s request for assistance in purchasing submarines but was opposed to Taiwan’s new proposal to build them in Taiwan (Kan, 2014, p. 13).
With Washington and Taipei at odds with how to progress with the submarine sale, all efforts were temporarily halted. This standstill has persisted up until the final few
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months of the Ma administration, in which Taiwan has revived its intent on building its own submarines with imported technology. Despite not having finalized the sale to this day, Bush’s 2001 approval alone was a major advancement in Washington’s adherence to the TRA and for Taiwan’s strategic defense against a PRC threat.
In November 2002, 4 Kidd class destroyers were placed on sale (Kan, 2014).
According to NavalTechnology.com, these destroyers are capable of carrying out anti-air, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare; and can also support amphibious landing forces (2015). They are equipped with a Naval Tactical Data System (NTDS), which integrates various subsystems and collects data from onboard and off-ship sensors
(NavalTechnology.com, 2015). The received data is processed and information about air targets is transferred to weapon systems for engagement (NavalTechnology.com, 2015).
The ships also have a flight deck and an enclosed hangar to support the operations of two medium-lift helicopters, which are equipped for anti-submarine warfare operations (NavalTechnology.com, 2015). With the installment of Standard II air defense missiles, Harpoon ship-to-ship missiles, Phalanx close-in weapons weaponry, MK-46 torpedoes, and anti-submarine rockets, the destroyers would be the largest and most powerful in the Taiwanese navy (Taipei Times, 2001).
Aircraft
In September 2007, Taiwan was permitted to purchase 12 P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft (Kan, 2014). Taipei had previously questioned the high cost of $300 million per plane, and sought alternatives such as refurbished P-3Bs or surplus P-3-Cs retired from the US Navy (Kan, 2014). Taiwan ultimately decided on possibly purchasing 12 excess P-3C for $1.96 billion (Kan, 2014). The Orion is well suited for multi-mission maritime long-endurance aircraft; performing air, surface and subsurface patrol and reconnaissance tasks over extended periods and far from support facilities (Lockheed Martin, 2015).
Armed with 20,000 pounds of ordnance, including Harpoon missiles, Maverick missiles, and Mk46/50/54 torpedoes, the P-3C Orion poses a significant threat to enemy
submarines and vessels (US Navy, 2009). The Orions would provide the island with unprecedented anti-submarine warfare capabilities. According to Robert Montaperto,
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“Taiwan needs that, because that's the best way there is really to defend against a submarine threat in combination with surface ships” (Ruppe & News Analysis, 2001).
3.3.3. Land Defense
Missiles
In October 2001, the US allotted 40 Javelin anti-tank missile systems and 360 javelin missiles for sale (Kan, 2014). The Javelin missile is a superior self-guiding tracking system and advanced warhead design allows it to defeat all known tanks out to ranges of 2500m (US Army, 2007). Its two major components are a reusable command launch unit (CLU) and a missile sealed in a disposable launch tube assembly (US Army, 2007). The CLU's integrated day/night site provides target engagement capability in adverse weather and countermeasure environments; and may be used by itself for battlefield surveillance and reconnaissance (US Army, 2007).
In October 2002, the US permitted 290 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles for purchase (Kan, 2014). The 2B variant is the newer model, designed to replace the 2A (US Army, 2007). Both are still in use, and approved for sale to Taiwan.
Vehicles
In September 2000, 146 M109A5 Howitzers were approved for sale (Kan, 2014). The M109 is a large tracked vehicle with a fully traversable turret and prominent bustle (Military.com, 2015). It is fitted with night-vision equipment, and can be fitted with an amphibious kit consisting of nine air bags, four on each side of the hull and one at the front (Military.com, 2015). The main armament is a 155-mm M126 howitzer in an M127 mount with a fume extractor and large muzzle brake (Military.com, 2015).
In September 2002, Taiwan was permitted to purchase 54 AAV7A1 amphibious assault vehicles (Kan, 2014). With a range of 300 miles, these vehicles carry up to 25 troops in water operations from ship to shore; through rough water and surf zone
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(Military.com, 2015). It also carries troops to inland objectives after ashore
(Military.com, 2015). The vehicle can be armed with an Mk 19 40 mm grenade launcher or M242 Bushmaster 25mm gun and a .50-caliber machine gun (Military.com, 2015).
3.4 Ma Ying Jeou
3.4.1 Air Defense
Missiles
In October 2008, Taiwan was offered 330 Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC)-3 defense systems (Kan, 2014). The PAC-3 is an air-defense, guided missile system with long-range, medium- to high-altitude, all-weather capabilities; designed to counter tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft (Military.com, 2015). The PAC-3 system upgrades have provided improvements that increase performance against evolving threats, meet user requirements, and enhance joint interoperability (Military.com, 2015).
Fast-reaction capability, high firepower, ability to track numerous targets simultaneously, and ability to operate in a severe environment make a premier air defense system
(Military.com, 2015).
Aircraft
Taiwan was approved for upgrades for 4 E-2T Hawkeye aircraft to the 2000 model (Kan, 2014). This newer variant can monitor a large number of aircraft at any given time, directing strike aircraft to assigned targets, in fair weather or foul, while maintaining a watch for hostile forces within the long range of their radar (Military.com, 2015).
In January 2010, Taiwan received permission to purchase 114 more PAC-3 missiles, and 60 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters (Kan, 2014). The Black Hawk helicopter provides air assault, general support, aeromedical evacuation, command and control and special operations support to combat and stability and support operations (US
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Army, 2007). It has the agility to get to the fight quicker and to mass effects throughout the battlespace across the full spectrum of conflict (US Army, 2007). An entire 11-person, fully-equipped infantry squad can be lifted in a single Black Hawk, transported faster than in predecessor systems, in most weather conditions (US Army, 2007). The Black Hawk can reposition a 105 mm Howitzer, its crew of six, and lift up to 30 Howitzer rounds of ammunition in a single lift (US Army, 2007).
In September 2011, after a long decision process, the US approved upgrades to Taiwan’s fleet of F-16 A/B fighters; including Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars and Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) (Kan, 2014). The
multifunction, AESA fire control radar brings fifth-generation air-to-air and air-to-ground radar capability to the F-16 (Northrop Grumman, 2015). It gives F-16 pilots
unprecedented situational awareness, targeting and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities (Northrop Grumman, 2015).
Meanwhile, the JDAM is a low-cost guidance kit that converts existing unguided free-fall bombs into accurately guided “smart” weapons (Boeing, 2015). The JDAM kit consists of a new tail section that contains an inertial navigation system/global
positioning system and body strakes for additional stability and lift (Boeing, 2015).
Bombs can be accurately delivered in any weather conditions and be launched at a great distance from the target, and the navigation system can be relied on to update the weapon all the way to impact (Boeing, 2015). This upgrade program would extend the service life of its F-16 A/B fighters and meet problems of obsolete spare parts, but would not add new planes to replace old fighters (Kan, 2014).
According to Shirley Kan, Taiwan has been trying to request new F-16 C/D fighters since 2006, to add to its existing F-16 force (2014, p. 20). The C and D variants had precision strike capabilities, night attack, and beyond visual range interception, with advanced controls and fire control radars (Kan, 2014, p. 23). However, Washington has repeatedly denied these requests. The Obama administration decided to authorize this upgrade instead. Despite these vital modifications, Taiwan still urgently needs more advanced fighters to combat the PLA’s growing air force.
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3.4.2 Naval Defense
Missiles
In October 2008, Taiwan was offered 32 UGM-84L sub launched harpoon anti-ship missiles (Kan, 2014). Harpoon missiles are capable of executing both land-strike and anti-ship missions (Boeing, 2015). The 500-pound blast warhead delivers lethal firepower against a wide variety of land-based targets, including coastal defense sites, surface-to-air missile sites, exposed aircraft, port/industrial facilities and ships in port (Boeing, 2015).
Vessels
In January 2010, The US placed 2 Osprey class mine hunting ships for sale. Osprey mine hunting ships are designed solely for mine hunting (NavalTechnology.com, 2015). It is equipped with a high-definition sonar and the mines are neutralized with a remotely controlled underwater vehicle (NavalTechnology.com, 2015). The platform has been designed with exceptionally low magnetic and acoustic signatures to protect against mine detonations during mine hunting operations (NavalTechnology, 2015).
3.4.3 Land Defense
Missiles
In October 2008, Taiwan was allowed to procure 182 Javelin anti-armor missiles to add to its collection of arsenal (Kan, 2014). The Javelin's fire-and-forget guidance mode enables gunners to fire and then immediately take cover, greatly increasing survivability (US Army, 2007). The missile can also be installed on tracked, wheeled or amphibious vehicles (US Army, 2007).