Taiwan Begins Deploying Harpoon CDS Coastal Systems Recently Received From U.S.

Taiwan has begun deploying the Harpoon Coastal Defense System (CDS) anti-ship missile systems purchased from the U.S.

This was reported by the Taipei Times.

The first launchers, command vehicles, and radar systems have already arrived on the island. The military has begun preparing the equipment for operation.

The systems are currently being delivered to units of the Littoral Combat Command, which is responsible for conducting combat operations in the coastal zone.

Under the terms of the agreement, Taiwan has ordered 100 Harpoon Coastal Defense System (HCDS) coastal missile systems from the United States.

The program calls for the delivery of 400 RGM-84L-4 Harpoon Block II anti-ship missiles, 100 transport and launch vehicles, and 25 radar vehicles.

In addition, the U.S. package includes four training missiles, storage containers, spare parts, maintenance equipment, training equipment, and other components.

The total cost of the program for Taiwan exceeds $2.85 billion. The Taiwanese military plans to complete the delivery of all equipment by the end of 2028.

Earlier, Militarnyi reported that in October 2025, Taiwan received its first Harpoon coastal defense systems for coastal defense.

Taiwan’s coastal defense and the role of the Harpoon CDS

These missile systems are intended to strengthen Taiwan’s anti-ship defense and complement domestic systems as part of efforts to deter China.

At the same time, the island is ramping up production of its own anti-ship missiles from the Hsiung Feng II and Hsiung Feng III families, forming a multi-layered coastal defense system.

The Taiwanese military is also expanding infrastructure to accommodate coastal missile units. They are constructing new positions and bases in various regions of the island, including Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung. Part of the new infrastructure is scheduled for completion by 2027.

The Harpoon has long been part of the Taiwanese Armed Forces’ arsenal. The procurement of the coastal variant of this missile also contributes to the standardization of weaponry across the Army, Air Force, and Navy.

At the same time, Taiwan is implementing a large-scale program to strengthen its defense capabilities, for which it plans to allocate 40 billion U.S. dollars. The program aims not only to enhance anti-ship defenses but also to provide additional protection for the island against air threats.

In 2026, Taiwan’s defense spending rose to 3.3% of gross domestic product. By 2030, the country plans to increase this figure to 5% of GDP, which Taiwan’s authorities describe as the largest sustained investment in the military sector in the country’s modern history.