Taiwanese industry is moving to establish logistical and maintenance support for the delayed delivery of M109A7 self-propelled howitzers from the US.

Washington approved the $750-million sale of 40 howitzers to Taiwan in 2022, but production delays tied to the war in Ukraine have postponed their delivery until 2026.

During the recently concluded Taipei International Aerospace and Defense Industry Exhibition, Taiwanese firm Champion Auto signed a memorandum of understanding with BAE Systems to provide logistical support and maintenance for military equipment, including the M109A7 self-propelled howitzers.

The 155mm artillery system can fire up to eight rounds per minute, with a maximum range of 30 kilometers (18 miles).

Champion Auto will also provide support for platforms such as M88A2 armored recovery vehicles and Assault Amphibious Vehicles, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency.

‘Prepare for Future Needs’

Despite the development, there is still no official word on the delivery of the M109A7, and even BAE Systems’ Vice President of International Market Creation – Asia, Yoshi Tanaka, declined to comment on its arrival.

He said that the agreement is intended to help “prepare for future needs.”

Meanwhile, Champion Auto stated that the collaboration will mark a milestone for Taiwanese enterprises in military logistics, leveraging the respective strengths of both companies.

“By combining BAE Systems’ extensive experience in military system integration with its own local capabilities, the two firms will work together to provide the Taiwanese military with more reliable equipment support,” Central News Agency wrote, citing Champion Auto.

General Manager of Combat Mission Systems at BAE Systems Andy Corea reportedly said that the partnership will help ensure the readiness of Taiwanese military equipment over the coming years, much of which was originally produced by the company.