Taiwan will build 12 sites for Sky Bow III air defence systems to intercept Chinese ballistic missiles within a 200km radius

By: Maksim Panasovskiy | 26.10.2023, 00:44

Taiwan is actively preparing for a possible war against China. In particular, the island state is strengthening its defence against ballistic missiles.

Here's What We Know

Taiwan has in service the US Patriot missile defence systems. Ukraine has already demonstrated that they can successfully intercept ballistic missiles. Nevertheless, Taiwan does not want to limit itself to foreign complexes.

The island nation's authorities are investing in the production of domestic Sky Bow air defence systems, also known as Tien Kung. They are designed to intercept ballistic missiles.

Specifically, Taiwan has decided to convert 12 sites to house Sky Bow III systems, which will be able to shoot down Chinese ballistic missiles within 200 kilometres. The first half of the sites will be operational in 2025 and the second half in 2026.

Sky Bow III can shoot down cruise missiles, aeroplanes, helicopters and drones in addition to ballistic missiles. The system's strength is its versatility, which lies in its ability to employ Sky Bow I and Sky Bow II interceptors.

The Sky Bow III surface-to-air missile is equipped with a solid fuel engine and weighs 870kg. It can reach speeds of approximately 8,500 kilometres per hour while in pursuit of a target.

Source: Army Recognition