America’s arms delivery to Taiwan angers China, risk of war may increase

Ignoring China’s threats, America has supplied dangerous weapons to Taiwan. This step may further increase the already ongoing tension between China and America. Taiwan recently received a delivery of M1A2T Abrams tanks, the first major shipment of American tanks to the island in 23 years.

Taiwan receives first batch of M1A2T tanks

According to Radio Free Asia, 38 M1A2T Abrams tanks have been supplied to Taiwan. This delivery is part of a larger order of 122 tanks expected over the next two years. This step of America is being considered an important step towards increasing the defense capabilities of Taiwan.

China’s threats have no effect

China has long been threatening America to stop the supply of arms to Taiwan. China has termed this as a violation of its ‘One China Policy’ and has made it clear that it can go to any extent to protect its sovereignty.

Recently, the Chinese Foreign Ministry had warned the US that if it did not stop the supply of arms to Taiwan, strict measures would be taken. Despite this, America delivered M1A2T tanks to Taiwan, which may further anger China.

M1A2T Abrams Tank: Game-Changer for Taiwan

The M1A2T Abrams tank is considered one of the most advanced battle tanks in the world. Some of its key features are:

1. 120 mm smoothbore gun: Capable of penetrating 850 mm thick armour.
2. Hunter-Killer Capability: The ability to track and destroy multiple targets simultaneously.
3. Advanced armor and mobility: It is much more modern than Taiwan’s older M60A3 and CM11 tanks.

For Taiwan, these tanks can play an important role in facing the possible invasion of China. However, some experts have raised questions about the performance of these tanks in Taiwan’s mountainous terrain and dense urban areas.

Deteriorating relations between China and America and the threat of war

Relations between China and America are already tense. Since the Corona epidemic, the rift in the relations between the two countries has deepened. During Donald Trump’s presidency, issues like trade war and military confrontation between China and America increased the tension. Now, the issue of giving arms to Taiwan has further fueled this tension.

China warned, yet America remained firm

China had openly threatened against giving arms to Taiwan, saying that it was a violation of its sovereignty. The Chinese Foreign Ministry had clarified that it would “take firm measures to safeguard national sovereignty and security.”
Despite this, America has continued to supply arms to Taiwan, increasing fears that this tension might take the form of war.

expert opinion

Eric Gomez, senior fellow at the Cato Institute, believes that the M1A2T tanks received by Taiwan will help protect important landing points during a possible invasion by China. Experts say that the supply of these tanks will increase Taiwan’s military strength and strengthen its ability to withstand pressure from China.

Will increasing tension lead to war?

After the latest developments, the question has arisen whether the tension between China and America can take the form of war. China’s claim on Taiwan and America’s support to Taiwan can become a big challenge for both the countries not only at the diplomatic but also at the military level.