Taiwan continues to modernise its army with indigenous products
D2, the second prototype of the Cloud Leopard II, boasts a locally manufactured 105mm main gun in a turret. (Photo: MND)
The island’s government has pushed through increased defence spending on new equipment, including the development of new rifles and the introduction of new armoured vehicle variants, as it prepares for a potential showdown with China.
Taiwan has ratified a record FY2025 defence budget of NT$647 billion ($20.2 billion) in August at a time when the island nation faces an existential threat from Chinese aggression. While some of the money will be steered towards new equipment for the Republic of China Army (ROCA), the budget increase of 7.7% compared to last year was less than a twelfth of what China spends on its military.
After completing operational tests in November 2023, a total of 25,000 T112 5.56mm assault rifles were ordered from the 205th Arsenal earlier this year. All of these 3.5kg weapons should be
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise]()
NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise
The Crystal Arrow Exercise is being used by NATO as a way to put new equipment such as uncrewed ground and aerial vehicles into the hands of alliance users, particularly Latvian and Baltic forces.
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
-
![SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display]()
SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display
The array of platforms on display at SAHA 2026 showcased the diversity of equipment now provided by the Turkish defence industry.
