Taiwan is strengthening its Patriot missile inventory by allocating surplus procurement funds along with resources from a proposed NT$1.25 trillion ($40 billion) special defense budget.
According to Liberty Times, the Taiwanese military has purchased 102 Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors for approximately NT$20 billion ($637 million), drawing from savings generated during a domestic missile system acquisition. Military and government sources cited by the outlet said the high cost of the missile units, along with associated maintenance equipment and technical support, led to the decision to procure 102 missiles. The first batch was reportedly delivered in early January.
Taiwan News further reported that additional PAC-3 MSE missiles will be funded through the special defense budget, sufficient to equip more than one missile battalion. In April 2025, Taiwan announced plans to establish its fourth Patriot air defense battalion as it awaits further US deliveries.
Separately, the US Army awarded Lockheed Martin a contract in January to recapitalize PAC-3 interceptors, including funding under a foreign military sales agreement for Taiwan.
As part of a layered air defense strategy, Taiwan intends to integrate the Patriot system with its domestically developed Sky Bow III (Tien Kung) and Strong Bow missiles, creating what it calls the “T-Dome” air and missile defense network to counter potential threats from China. The Sky Bow III is designed to intercept ballistic and cruise missiles at lower altitudes, while the Strong Bow surface-to-air missile targets mid-altitude ballistic threats at ranges up to 70 kilometers (43.5 miles). The PAC-3 MSE interceptors can engage targets at altitudes of up to 60 kilometers (37 miles), with extended-range capabilities available.
