Taiwan publicly released images of the AGM-114 Hellfire missile system mounted on a civilian delivery truck, indicating that the country is investing in a fast, inconspicuous mobile platform in preparation for China’s landing operations.
In the footage released by the Taiwan Ministry of Defense, a vehicle that looks like a regular commercial van is equipped with hidden launchers and foldable sight masts, folded onto the roof, making it hardly distinct from civilian traffic.
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Taipei authorities have not said how many of these units are running or part of a larger secret plan, but local military analysts have pointed out that the system is perfect for stealth travel on coastal roads and urban areas.
The launcher integrates optical and infrared sensors, allowing targets to be detected and captured independently without external data, allowing for rapid deployment against landing vessels, amphibian vehicles and other ground threats. After the attack is complete, the launcher is stored and returns to a false state, making it difficult for enemies to detect it.
This effort is in line with Taiwan’s defence strategy trends, prioritizing systems with high mobility, survivable and low detection signatures to counter superior enemies. It utilizes mountainous and dense urban areas with topography.
Experts compare the platform to the impromptu solutions seen in recent conflicts, such as the case of brimstone missiles being fired from unarmored trucks in the Ukrainian War. This type of adaptation provides high firepower at low cost and reduces vulnerability to preemptive attacks.
Information and Images: Taiwan Ministry of Defense (ROC). This content was created with the help of AI and proofread by the editorial team.
