Artillery Shell Falls From Military Truck During Taiwan Exercise Convoy

An 8-inch howitzer shell unexpectedly rolled off a military truck participating in the Han Kuang 42 exercise, causing a temporary disruption on Taiwan's Provincial Highway 13. The incident occurred on a downhill, winding stretch of road in Miaoli County's Zaoqiao Township on August 9th.

Fortunately, the shell did not detonate, and no injuries or damage were reported. Military personnel quickly secured the area, implementing traffic control measures. A forklift was dispatched to move the artillery shell from the roadway, averting a potentially dangerous situation.

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The military quickly completed safety measures and hoisting, continuing the transport mission; no personnel, equipment, or vehicles were damaged.

The Army Logistics Command issued a statement explaining the likely cause: a quick-release locking strap on the truck's cargo reportedly loosened, leading to the shell slipping onto the road surface. The military emphasized that the transport of ammunition by civilian contractors is part of the exercise's verification process.

While the incident was resolved without harm, the military acknowledged that it highlights areas for improvement in the procedures for transporting ammunition via civilian contractors. This will be a key point of review after the exercise concludes, aiming to enhance safety protocols and secure loading procedures for such transports.

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The occurrence of this accident highlights that there is still room for improvement in the contractor's transportation operations.