Taiwan Unveils Advanced D3 105 mm Mobile Gun System at TADTE 2025
Taiwan has recently introduced its latest military asset, the D3 105 mm Mobile Gun System, during the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE) 2025, which took place from September 18 to 20. This exhibit highlights Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defense capabilities in response to evolving regional threats.
Overview of the D3 Mobile Gun System
The D3 is classified as a direct fire support unit, often characterized as a light tank by Republic of China Army (RoCA) officials. Insights from two RoCA officers and a project manager from the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) shed light on its specifications and operational advantages:
- Dimensions:
- Length: Approximately 8 meters
- Width: 3 meters
- Height: 2.9 meters (compared to the previous D2 at 3.3 meters)
This compact design enhances maneuverability and deployability, making the D3 a vital element in Taiwan’s armored fleet.
Armament and Technological Features
The D3 is equipped with cutting-edge weaponry, designed to reduce recoil and improve firing effectiveness. Key features include:
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Low Recoil Gun System:
- The primary armament is a new gun rail system that minimizes recoil by over 70%, bringing force down from 60 tons to less than 20 tons.
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Turret Capabilities:
- Full 360-degree rotation capability
- Remote Weapon Station (RWS) with a 12.75 mm machine gun
- Co-axial 7.62 mm machine gun
- Twelve smoke dischargers positioned at the rear of the turret
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Surveillance and Defensive Equipment:
- Integrated day and night vision cameras
- Radio communication antennas
- Laser Warning Sensors (LWS) for enhanced situational awareness
Ammunition and Payload Capacity
The D3’s design allows for significant ammunition storage, enabling sustained operations in combat scenarios:
- Ammunition Load:
- 33 rounds of 105 mm
- 800 rounds of 12.75 mm
- Approximately 4,000 rounds of 7.62 mm
- 24 smoke grenades for tactical operations
The combination of these features positions the D3 as a formidable addition to Taiwan’s defense inventory, reflecting the continuous evolution of its military technology to meet contemporary security challenges.
Strategic Implications
The unveiling of the D3 Mobile Gun System signifies Taiwan’s commitment to bolstering its defense infrastructure amidst regional tensions. As asymmetric warfare becomes more prevalent, systems like the D3 not only enhance ground capabilities but also serve as a deterrent against potential aggression from adversaries in the region.
