Taiwan Moves to Strengthen Defenses with the Purchase of US NASAMS Air Defense Missile Systems.

TAIPEI, Taiwan, July 21, 2023 - Taiwanese Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng has confirmed that Taiwan intends to purchase the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System 2 (NASAMS 2) from the United States. The minister made the announcement in a legislative session on July 18, 2023.
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Norwegian NASAMS air defense missile launcher unit.  (Picture source Norway MoD)

The Taiwanese Defense Minister confirmed media reports about the proposed acquisition but said the military was still waiting for an official timeline for the purchase from the United States. He also cited the recent performance of the NASAMS air defense missile system in Ukraine, where the U.S. Defense officials claim it has successfully intercepted all incoming Russian missiles, underscoring the system's effectiveness.

According to Chieh Chung, an associate research fellow with the National Policy Foundation in Taipei, one of the key appeals of NASAMS 2 is its compatibility with Link 16, a standardized military communications protocol used among North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members. This feature enables real-time exchange of tactical data between different units on land, sea, and air.

Furthermore, the NASAMS 2 system can integrate with other systems, providing a highly adaptable mid-range air defense solution, which Chieh claims will enhance engagement efficiency.

The intended acquisition comes amid rising tensions in the region and is seen as an effort to bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities. However, it is expected to draw criticism from Beijing, which views Taiwan as part of its territory and has consistently opposed arms sales to the island.

The Taiwanese Defense Ministry has yet to disclose the estimated cost or timeline for the procurement. However, analysts suggest the purchase signifies a significant step in strengthening Taiwan's air defense infrastructure.

The National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System 2 (NASAMS 2) is a superior air defense missile system jointly manufactured by Raytheon, a U.S. company, and Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace from Norway. The system is currently utilized by various NATO countries and has been distributed globally. NASAMS 2 is an enhanced version of its predecessor, NASAMS, delivered to the Norwegian military in 2006. The primary distinction between the two versions lies in the incorporation of standard tactical data links, including Link 16, Link 11, JREAP, ATDL-1, and others, along with improved ground radar.

A single NASAMS 2 battery includes up to four firing units, each comprising 3 missile launchers (LCHR), each of which holds six AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles. Furthermore, each firing unit encompasses one AN/MPQ-64F1 Improved Sentinel radar, a Fire Distribution Center vehicle, and a vehicle equipped with an electro-optical camera (MSP500).

The Improved Sentinel radar features an expanded frequency range, variable rotation speed, and heightened ability to identify and track targets. The radar platform is equipped with its own power supply and is portable, thanks to a trailer that can be towed by a range of vehicles. Each radar can independently process and disseminate data and can connect through radio links, cable, Multi Rolle Radio, or TADKOM.

Defense News July 2023