TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of National Defense (MND) intends to purchase more than 1,000 additional Stinger missiles to meet defense needs amid the increased Chinese military threat.

The Army and Navy each ordered 250 Stinger missiles in 2019 and 2015, respectively. However, Taiwanese forces urgently require more effective countermeasures and deterrence, prompting the Army to order 1,985 more Stinger missiles from the US for approximately NT$55.54 billion, Liberty Times reported. 

According to the MND’s 2025 budget report, the Army will procure 549 launch systems and 549 identification, friend or foe (IFF) systems. The missiles are expected to be delivered by 2031.

The Navy also plans to buy 45 man-portable Stinger missiles, 15 launch systems, and 15 IFF devices, scheduled for delivery by 2031. However, the military has not commented on whether these purchases are included in the Army’s procurement plan.

In March, the Navy revealed that it had sent 11 letters to the US urging the expedited delivery of 250 Stinger missiles it previously requested. Since 2019, there has been a significant backlog of arms deliveries to Taiwan, which has affected Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen defense capabilities against China. 

Talks of purchasing additional Stinger missiles from the US first came about under then-President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) to meet air defense needs and prepare for more live-fire target practice as conscript service increased to one year.