Shortly after delivering the first batch of RGM-84L-4 Harpoon missiles to Taiwan’s armed forces, the U.S. government announced that it is considering authorizing the country to advance in the local production of FIM-92 Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, aiming to further strengthen the island’s defense capabilities amid tensions with China. Specifically, the Taiwan Academy of Sciences would be targeted to carry out these efforts, especially since a significant number of additional missiles are still to be delivered.
In line with this, local Taiwanese media have reported that military authorities in the country expect to receive a U.S. delegation next year to assess on-site the technical capabilities of the Taiwan Academy of Sciences for potential local production of FIM-92 Stinger missiles. If certification is achieved following the visit, the delivery schedule would be considerably expedited, a noteworthy detail given that it was previously delayed due to the war in Ukraine.
Delving into details, it’s important to note that the advancement of this proposal will not only depend on the aforementioned factors but also on the need for the Taiwanese government to invest in the Academy of Sciences to make it happen. On the 3rd of this month, the leadership of the institution expressed optimism that this would occur, although the final decision does not rest with them.
Currently, the Taiwanese government aims to increase its Stinger missile inventory by a total of 2,485 units, considering an original order of 500 missiles to be distributed equally between the Army and Navy of Taiwan, along with launchers and target identification systems; this was later expanded by an additional 1,985 units. As initially mentioned, the primary rationale provided by the Taiwanese defense ministry centers on the increase in Chinese incursions in the surrounding areas of the island, making it necessary to reinforce anti-aircraft missile inventories in anticipation of a potential conflict.
Finally, recalling some known features of the FIM-92 Stinger, it is important to highlight that it is a product of Raytheon Missiles & Defense launched in the 1980s. It is an infrared-guided anti-aircraft missile, measuring about 152 cm in length and approximately 70 cm in diameter, weighing around 15 kg including the weight of the launcher. In terms of range, each unit is capable of neutralizing threats at distances up to 5,500 meters and altitudes of 3,800 meters; it can be used from an individual’s shoulder or from platforms such as the M1097 Avenger.
*Images used for illustrative purposes.
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