M109A7

The M109A7 is a self-propelled howitzer manufactured in the United States. Taiwan's planned acquisition of these howitzers is currently newsworthy due to potential setbacks caused by legislative budget gridlock in Taiwan. Recent reports indicate that the deal to purchase M109A7 howitzers, along with Javelin and Tow anti-tank missiles, faces expiration due to a lack of budget authorization. Taiwan's Defence Minister has urged opposition lawmakers to approve emergency funding before the March 15 deadline to prevent the deal from collapsing. The potential failure of this arms deal, alongside others, marks an unprecedented situation for Taiwan and could undermine its defense readiness, especially given increasing military pressure from Beijing. The situation highlights the challenges Taiwan faces in procuring necessary military equipment amidst internal political and budgetary constraints.