On May 12, 2025, Taiwan just finished its first live-fire test of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). This is a huge leap toward that goal of increasing the nation’s military lethality. As has become customary, the launch was conducted by the Taiwanese military from the Jiupeng test center on the island’s sparsely populated, remote Pacific coast. Inflamed relations with China have spiked. Just this past week, Taiwan announced it had identified yet another such “joint combat readiness patrol” by China’s military around the island.
Taiwan has purchased 29 HIMARS from Lockheed Martin. So far, they have deployed the initial tranche of 11 systems last year. The rest of the units are expected to arrive by next year, adding to Taiwan’s burgeoning defense arsenal. The HIMARS systems have the range to hit targets 300 kilometers (186 miles) away. This enhanced range extends their reach to hit coastal targets in China’s southern province of Fujian.
During the live-fire exercise, US personnel from Lockheed Martin were present at the Jiupeng base to assist with any technical issues that may arise. This joint production underscores the United States’ position as Taiwan’s most significant arms provider. Internationally, the HIMARS systems have developed a rock star status. Australia just recently bought 42 HIMARS launcher units, with the first two of them being delivered in March.
Taiwanese military’s credible test is an important indication of the island’s resolve to defend itself. Taipei police officer Ho Hsiang-yih told reporters that the exercise was very important.
“I believe that this rocket firing shows our people the military’s determination to protect the country’s security and safeguard our beautiful homeland.” – Officer Ho Hsiang-yih
The live-fire test underscores Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen its deterrence capabilities in light of ongoing tensions with China, which seeks to assert its sovereignty claims over the island. The HIMARS system will be pivotal in any Taiwan defense strategy. It will greatly increase the nation’s ability to defend against an attack—whether a cyber or conventional one—before it’s too late.
While regional dynamics are changing, Taiwan continues to be on guard as it seeks to preserve its own defense readiness. Taiwan has shown a deep commitment to defending its sovereignty. Acquisition and successful operation of advanced weaponry, such as HIMARS, exemplifies this commitment even with emerging pressures within the region.
