Taiwan's Defense Ministry plans to buy more than 1,000 additional Stinger missiles to boost its defense capabilities amid growing concerns about China's military activities.
The army and navy ordered 250 Stinger missiles in 2019 and 2015, respectively. However, Taiwan's forces urgently need more effective countermeasures and deterrence, which led the military to order 1,985 more Stinger missiles from the US at a cost of about NT$55.54 billion, Taiwan News reported, citing Liberty Times.
The Army will buy 549 launch systems and 549 identification, friend or foe (IFF) systems. According to the MND's 2025 budget report, the missiles are expected to be delivered by 2031.
The Navy also plans to procure 45 man-portable Stinger missiles, 15 launch systems and 15 IFF devices, which will be delivered by 2031.
However, the Army has not commented on whether these purchases are included in the Army's procurement plan.
Taiwan's navy has been pressing the US to speed up the delivery of 250 Stinger missiles, and has sent 11 letters since March.
This is part of a larger issue, as Taiwan has faced delays in receiving weapons from the US since 2019, hampering its efforts to increase security against China.
The purchase of additional Stinger missiles from the US was first discussed during the term of then-President Tsai Ing-wen, to meet air defence requirements and prepare for more live-fire target exercises, as conscript service was extended by one year.
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