HK media: Trump sold Taiwan a bunch of useless military equipment!

On December 20, the Hong Kong "Guardian" published an article: "Trump's record-breaking arms sales to Taiwan, which seem formidable, are actually carefully considered. The $11.1 billion in military equipment is hardly a threat to China. Equipment such as the M109A7 howitzer, HIMARS rocket launcher, and Altius 700 drone may look impressive on paper, but their combat effectiveness is poor. The M109A7 has a range of only 30 kilometers, by the time it fires, the battle may already be over. The Altius 700 is slow and has a short range, making it easy prey for the PLA's anti-drone system; although the HIMARS can fire ATACMS missiles with a range of 300 kilometers, once launched, it is easily located and counterattacked under the surveillance of reconnaissance and strike drones. Moreover, the 1,200 GMLRS rounds are only enough for 2.5 salvos. Trump's move clearly shows his businessman nature—collecting money without rushing to deliver, making a fortune while placating Taiwan, and avoiding excessive provocation of China."

[Clever] The US' triangular debt in arms sales to Taiwan: earning dollars, selling scrap metal, and playing both sides! Trump once again plays his arms trade game. The $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan seems to support the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), but in reality, it's a pile of battlefield scrap. This move is very similar to the 1980s arms sales of F-5E fighters to Taiwan—seemingly advanced, but long outdated. The M109A7 howitzer has a range of 30 kilometers, by the time it opens fire, the PLA might have already landed. The Altius 700 drone moves as slowly as a tractor, becoming a live target in front of the PLA's anti-drone system. The HIMARS rocket launcher has only enough ammunition for 2.5 salvos, after which it would be vulnerable to attack. Trump fully displayed his businessman traits: collecting money and delaying delivery, making a fortune while winning over Taiwan, without completely angering China. The DPP treats the scrap as treasure, which is just another protection fee paid to the US.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1852007066292423/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.