U.S. Declines Taiwan’s Request for MH-60R Helicopters, E-2D Radar Aircraft

The United States has reportedly refused to supply Taiwan with MH-60R anti-submarine helicopters and E-2D Advanced Hawkeye early warning aircraft.

During a recent visit to Washington, Taiwan's Vice Minister of Defense Bai Honghui presented a list of priority weapons to American officials, emphasizing the need for upgraded systems amid growing pressure from the U.S. to boost defense spending. Despite Taiwan's increased budget allocations, several requests were turned down, according to a report by Upmedia.

The U.S. reportedly informed Taiwanese representatives that certain weapons, including the MH-60R helicopters and E-2D aircraft, do not align with Washington’s concept of developing "asymmetric combat forces" for Taiwan. Under this doctrine, the focus is on lighter, mobile, and survivable systems rather than expensive traditional platforms.

Taiwan's need for new early warning aircraft is pressing. Its air force currently operates six aging E-2K Hawkeye aircraft, first introduced in 1995 and later upgraded in 2013. However, these aircraft now face growing technical challenges, including issues with airframes, electronics, and spare parts shortages.

Between 2018 and 2020, Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense had explored the possibility of acquiring newer airborne early warning and control (AWACS) platforms. Financial constraints led to the postponement of these plans, with an aim to revisit the decision by 2025. It was anticipated that a formal procurement request could be filed in 2026, with deliveries expected between 2031 and 2032. Following the U.S. decision, these plans have been cast into uncertainty.

In naval aviation, Taiwan relies on older S-70C(M) anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters. With the increasing submarine threat from China, Taiwan had sought the MH-60R as a modern replacement. The inability to procure new helicopters now raises concerns about the island's underwater surveillance and response capabilities.

Separately, Taiwan continues efforts to bolster its missile defenses. The Ministry of Defense plans to establish a fourth air defense battalion equipped with newly acquired Patriot PAC-3 systems, with deployments expected between 2025 and 2026.

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