US-Taiwan Defence Deal: Taiwan Receives First Batch of ‘Ship Killer’ Harpoon Missiles, Major Boost Against Chinese Warships

Taipei: In a significant development amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, the United States has begun delivering the first batch of ground-based Harpoon anti-ship missile systems to Taiwan. According to local media reports, convoys carrying key components of the missile defence package have been spotted arriving in Taiwan, confirming the start of the long-awaited delivery process.

The shipment reportedly includes missile launcher trucks, radar vehicles, and command-and-control units, which will strengthen Taiwan’s coastal defence capabilities against potential maritime threats, especially from the Chinese Navy.

Convoys Spotted With Advanced Military Equipment

Reports indicate that the launcher vehicles are mounted on the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) platform, widely used by the US military for transporting heavy weapon systems. Along with the launchers, Taiwan has also received supporting equipment needed for deployment and integration.

Taiwan had placed an order for 100 Harpoon Coastal Defence Systems along with 400 missiles through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. The deal was approved earlier with the objective of improving Taiwan’s ability to respond to surface-level threats approaching its coastline.

Delivery to Continue in Multiple Phases

The Harpoon missile system delivery is being carried out in phases as per a mutually agreed schedule between Washington and Taipei. According to the current timeline:

• 32 systems are expected to be delivered by the end of 2026
• The remaining 68 systems will be delivered by 2028

This phased supply is designed to allow Taiwan’s forces to complete training and technical integration before receiving full operational missile stock.

US Instructors Deployed for Training and Integration

Sources suggest that the United States has also deployed technical advisors and instructors to help Taiwan integrate the Harpoon systems into its military network. The delivery process typically begins with equipment such as mobile launchers and radar systems, while the actual missiles are supplied in the final stage after training and operational preparation are completed.

These systems are expected to be operated by Taiwan’s Naval Coastal Defence Command.

Taiwan Bought Advanced RGM-84L-4 Harpoon Variant

Taiwan has reportedly acquired the RGM-84L-4 Block II (U) version of the Harpoon missile, a modern and upgraded model designed specifically for challenging coastal environments.

The Block II configuration provides enhanced guidance and targeting capability, allowing it to strike moving surface targets with higher accuracy.

Range and Power: A Deadly Threat at Sea

The missile’s range has been reported differently by various sources. Boeing, the manufacturer, states that the Harpoon Block II has a maximum range of approximately 124 km, while some independent assessments suggest it may exceed 148 km.

Taiwan’s Navy has also claimed that the version purchased offers improved performance compared to older US military variants.

Why Harpoon Missiles Matter Against China

China has significantly increased its naval presence around Taiwan in recent months. Chinese warships frequently conduct exercises near the island, and Chinese vessels have also begun crossing the Taiwan Strait in a show of strength.

Military analysts believe the Harpoon missile system could prove to be a serious deterrent, as it is capable of destroying enemy warships and potentially sinking them.

China has also deployed aircraft carriers and destroyers toward Taiwan’s eastern side facing the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, Beijing has attempted to establish “no-go zones” near major Taiwanese ports such as Kaohsiung and Keelung, signalling possible blockade strategies.

However, with the arrival of Harpoon missile systems, Taiwan’s ability to counter any naval blockade or maritime aggression is expected to improve significantly.

Strategic Message to Beijing

The delivery of these “ship killer” missiles is being seen as a clear strategic signal from Washington, reinforcing US commitment to Taiwan’s security. With China’s growing military pressure, this defence upgrade could play a crucial role in strengthening Taiwan’s coastal protection and raising the cost of any potential Chinese military action.

The Harpoon missile system is widely regarded as one of the most effective anti-ship weapons in the world, and its arrival marks a major shift in Taiwan’s defensive preparedness.