Taiwan Conducts HIMARS Rocket Drills in Taiwan Strait to Counter China

Taiwan’s military fired HIMARS rockets into the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, during live-fire training in Taichung City. The exercise demonstrated “shoot-and-scoot” tactics intended to repel a potential Chinese attack, according to military officials. This marked the first time these U.S.-supplied rockets were fired into the waters separating the island from China.

Why did Taiwan conduct these live-fire exercises?

The military simulated a response to a Chinese invasion to test precision-strike capabilities and rapid deployment. Army Sgt. Wang Ming-hui stated the training continues with “unwavering determination to protect Taiwan” due to current enemy threats.

The drills took place on Taiwan’s west coast. Along with the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), the military utilized 155 mm howitzers during the operation.

“Due to the current enemy threat, we will continue HIMARS training with unwavering determination to protect Taiwan as the nation’s strongest force,” army Sgt. Wang Ming-hui said.

Did You Know? The HIMARS vehicles used in the Taichung City drill maneuvered into position and launched their rockets within three minutes of receiving a firing order.

How does the “shoot-and-scoot” strategy work?

The HIMARS is a truck-mounted pod of rockets designed for an asymmetric defense strategy encouraged by the United States. This approach avoids head-to-head confrontations with larger, expensive weapon systems.

Under “shoot-and-scoot” tactics, the vehicle drives out from a hidden location to fire its missiles. It then quickly relocates to a new hiding place to avoid detection. For this specific exercise, the military used reduced-range practice rockets that fell into the water shortly after launch.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the shift toward asymmetric capabilities reflects a strategic trade-off. By prioritizing mobility and precision over “big-ticket” purchases, Taiwan aims to maintain a deterrent effect against China’s frequent deployment of warships and planes near the island.

What is the status of U.S. weapons sales to Taiwan?

The United States is the primary supplier of weaponry for Taiwan’s defense, though it does not recognize Taiwan as a country. In December, the U.S. announced plans to sell 82 additional HIMARS systems as part of a larger arms deal.

Taiwan Conducts Live-Fire Military Drills Using US-Supplied HIMARS Rocket Systems to Counter

That package currently appears to be on hold. This development follows a meeting last month in Beijing between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

What may happen next?

Taiwan may continue to conduct live-fire drills on its west coast to refine rapid deployment tactics. The status of the 82 pending HIMARS systems could remain uncertain depending on further diplomatic discussions between the U.S. and China.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does HIMARS stand for?
HIMARS stands for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System.

Where were the rockets fired during the exercise?
The rockets were fired from Taichung City into the waters of the Taiwan Strait.

Why is China mentioned in the context of these drills?
China views Taiwan as a renegade province that must come under its control and frequently sends warships and planes into the skies and waters near the island.

How do you view the impact of “shoot-and-scoot” tactics on regional stability?