TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Army has allocated NT$1.48 billion (US$46.31 million) to maintain its Clouded Leopard armored vehicles.
The eight-wheeled armored vehicle is currently used by the Army and Military Police, with over 670 in total. However, multiple issues have emerged since entering service. To resolve these problems, the Army will carry out a fleet-wide inspection and maintenance project from 2025 to 2029, per Liberty Times.
In the summer, it was reported that 50 vehicles had faulty armor due to poor welding, including ones made within the last two years. The Army Command said the issues have been fixed, and the Armaments Bureau is working with contractors to conduct a thorough review.
The Armaments Bureau said that the landing plates of 48 Clouded Leopards were repaired and the front slant plates of two vehicles have been completely replaced. Testing confirmed that the armor remained intact. However, as the maintenance project progresses, it is clear additional issues still need to be addressed, the bureau added.
In June, the bureau unveiled the latest prototype of its new infantry fighting vehicle, the D2. The D2 is based on the eight-wheeled Clouded Leopard armored vehicle but is armed with a 105 mm assault gun and features hunter-killer capabilities, similar to the US-made Abrams tank.
Military officials said that the D2 passed 91 different tests last August as part of its initial operational evaluation and is still in the development phase.
The Ministry of National Defense has approved NT$170 million in funding for a new D3 prototype to be completed by 2025. An improved turret will be designed by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology and the Armament Bureau will make a new vehicle body.
