Taiwan Conducts HIMARS Drills Targeting Chinese Mainland Amid Rising Tensions

• •Taiwan fired HIMARS rockets for the first time toward the Taiwan Strait on June 10, 2026.
• •The drills simulated a response to a potential Chinese invasion, enhancing Taiwan's military capabilities.
• •The U.S. continues to support Taiwan's defense with advanced weaponry amid rising tensions with China.

On June 10, 2026, Taiwan's military conducted live-fire drills using the U.S.-supplied HIMARS rocket system, marking the first time rockets were fired toward the Taiwan Strait. The exercise aimed to simulate a response to a potential Chinese invasion, showcasing Taiwan's ability to employ 'shoot-and-scoot' tactics for enhanced battlefield survivability. The HIMARS system, which has a range of 190 miles, could target Chinese coastal areas, particularly in Fujian province. This training comes amid ongoing military pressure from China, which considers Taiwan a breakaway province. The U.S. has been a key supplier of military equipment to Taiwan, emphasizing its commitment to Taiwan's defense. The drills included the use of 155 mm howitzers and were part of a broader strategy to modernize Taiwan's military capabilities. The recent escalation reflects the increasing military tensions in the region.