China has escalated tensions by encircling Taiwan on all fronts, signaling an aggressive military maneuver. Amidst this, the American Special Forces stationed in Taiwan are on high alert. In a striking countermeasure, Taiwan has deployed its supersonic anti-ship missile HF-3 along the coastlines. There's growing concern that China might breach Taiwan’s defenses as early as the coming June.
Currently, more than 42 Chinese military aircraft are patrolling the skies near Taiwan. Approximately 28 of these have crossed the median line. China has strategically positioned 15 warships and 16 coast guard vessels surrounding Taiwan. Taiwan, in turn, is readying its coast guard for a robust sea response.
The Taiwanese military has also stationed Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missiles near the coastlines. These advanced air defense systems can take down enemy ships, missiles, fighter jets, and helicopters right out of the sky. An earlier version of this missile has also been deployed.
China's spokesperson Wang Wenbin remarked ominously that the heads of Taiwan's independence forces would be crushed, with blood spilled. China has deployed J-16 and J-20 fighter jets in the exercises. Additionally, the Type 052D destroyers and Type 071 amphibious warfare ships are on standby.
Furthermore, China has rolled out DF-15B short-range ballistic missiles and the PHL-03 multiple-launch rocket system. Let's delve into the might of the missiles Taiwan has set up in defense.
Source: aajtak
Taiwan has fortified key strategic positions with Hsiung Feng III (HF-3) supersonic missiles, also known as Brave Wind Three. These medium-range supersonic missiles are adept at targeting both land and naval units. Taiwan has continually deployed these missiles since 2007, having constructed over 250 units to date. A missile typically weighs between 1400 to 1500 kilograms, is 20 feet in length, and has a diameter of 18 inches. It features a 225-kilogram self-forging fragments warhead.
Source: aajtak
The HF-3 missile, propelled by a liquid-fuel ramjet engine with a solid-fuel main booster and two side boosters, has a range of 400 kilometers and can reach speeds of up to 4322 km/hr. This missile is versatile enough to engage any warships or ground targets in its range. It can be launched from ships, transporter erector launchers, and bunkers, with interchangeable warheads to adapt to different battlefield needs.
