TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The military plans to unveil two upgraded M60A3 tanks at the Taipei Aerospace and Defense Technology Exhibition in September, but there are concerns they are too heavy for the venue.

The upgraded tank weighs 52.6 tonnes, Liberty Times reported. Without proper protective measures in place, it could potentially damage the indoor exhibition venue.

Tracked vehicles have rarely been situated indoors, according to Liberty Times. If the M60A3 cannot be shown as planned, the military may consider alternative venues later this year to showcase them to the public.

The military commissioned the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology and other institutions to improve firepower and survivability for its 460 M60A3 tanks. The upgrades include new fire control, targeting, observation systems, and a 105mm barrel. 

The tanks will also be outfitted with a radar warning system and night-vision thermal imaging devices to improve situational awareness. These systems transmit external camera footage to helmet-mounted displays for the driver and commander, enhancing their ability to observe their surroundings and eliminating blind spots. 

Meanwhile, the defense ministry has delayed showcasing the extended-range Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missile system until at least 2027. It originally approved NCSIST's plan to display the system at TADTE, but later canceled to maintain deterrence and prevent sensitive information from being leaked.