After 63 years in service, the MIM-23K Hawk missile was officially decommissioned at a Tainan ceremony on Thursday. The Hawk was once critical to Taiwan’s air defense. But due to age and maintenance issues, it’s been phased out in recent years. As for what will replace it, let’s hear from a defense analyst.
Su Tzu-yun
Institute of National Defense and Security Research
In the future, Taiwan’s air defense network may consist of long-range Tien Kung missiles, Patriot missiles, medium-range land-based Tien Chien II missiles, NASAMS missiles, as well as short-range Stinger missiles and the Avenger system. This multi-layered air defense network can effectively block the threat of PLA aircraft, cruise missiles, and other air targets, to ensure the security of key military infrastructure and the air defense of ground troops.
The MIM-23K Hawk missile is a medium-range surface-to-air missile made by the U.S. defense company Raytheon. It’s effective at an altitude of up to 20 kilometers and a range of about 40 kilometers. It was once the backbone of Taiwan’s mid to low-altitude air defense.