Taiwan has received the first batch of 38 advanced M1A2 Abrams tanks from the United States.

These state-of-the-art tanks, the first new tanks to be delivered to Taiwan in 30 years, arrived on Sunday and were transferred to a military base in Hsinchu.

The delivery of the M1A2 tanks is part of a larger arms deal worth over $1.2 billion, aimed at bolstering Taiwan's defense capabilities against potential threats from China. The remaining tanks are expected to be delivered in 2025 and 2026.  

Taiwan has been increasing its military spending in recent years, particularly due to growing tensions with China. The island nation has been modernizing its military and seeking advanced weaponry from the United States to counter China's military buildup.  

China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, has strongly condemned the US arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing views the island as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under its control.  

The delivery of the M1A2 tanks is likely to further escalate tensions between Taiwan and China. Both sides have been engaged in a tense standoff, with China conducting frequent military exercises near Taiwan's waters and airspace. (ILKHA)