TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The first batch of M1A2T Abrams tanks purchased from the US is expected to arrive this month.

In 2019, the US State Department approved the sale of 108 Abrams tanks for NT$40.52 billion (US$1.24 billion). According to the Ministry of National Defense's budget report, the Army will receive the tanks in three batches of 38, 42, and 28 from 2024 to 2026, per Liberty Times.  

A source told LTN that the first batch of tanks is expected to arrive in mid-December. The arrival time may also be affected by shipping logistics, the source said. 

A rail enthusiast spotted a freight train carrying Abrams tanks at La Plata train station in Missouri on Sept. 23 and uploaded a video to YouTube, triggering discussions among Taiwanese and overseas viewers, according to LTN.

Unlike the desert camouflage used on M1 Abrams by the US and Middle Eastern countries, the M1A2T tanks bound for Taiwan are painted in green jungle camouflage, similar to the currently active M60A3 Patton and CM-11 Brave Tiger tanks.

Dozens of Army instructors who participated in equipment training in the US returned to Taiwan in November. The next training phase is slated to begin after the Lunar New Year holiday in February.