Taiwan Army Adopts Dispersed Deployment for Artillery Drills, Moving Beyond Traditional Formations

Taiwan's Army has moved away from its traditional artillery deployment methods, adopting a more dispersed and adaptive strategy during recent live-fire exercises. The 10th Army Corps concluded a two-day training event that showcased a significant shift from the previous "line-up" formation to a decentralized, "deploy-as-needed" approach.

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The exercise has abandoned the previous training model; it is now adaptive to the terrain, dispersed, and conducted with live troops and live ammunition to truly validate the effectiveness of weapon equipment and the results of combat-oriented training.

In a notable change, various artillery pieces and multiple rocket launchers were brought to the exercise sites only a day before firing commenced. This contrasts sharply with past practices where equipment was often in place for a week prior to drills. The new method aims to validate the effectiveness of weapon systems and enhance combat readiness through realistic, live-fire drills.

Army Commander General Lu Kun-hsiu, who observed the exercise, lauded the troops for their performance despite adverse weather conditions. He emphasized that the training has progressed beyond uniform formations to embrace decentralized deployment and adaptation to terrain. Gen. Lu urged commanders to embrace calculated risks, viewing "inaction" as a failure to bear responsibility. The ultimate goal, he stated, is to integrate tactical positioning and move towards a truly combat-ready force.

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Training inevitably involves risks. Inaction stems from fear or unwillingness to take responsibility. How to reduce risk factors is the sole consideration for commanders.

Gen. Lu also encouraged officers to foster innovation in training methods, using exercises within operational areas to familiarize troops with terrain and environmental specifics. This, he believes, will ensure rapid mobilization and timely deployment during any contingency. The commander also acknowledged efforts in developing new live-fire training grounds through local cooperation, reinforcing the public's confidence in the military's commitment to safeguarding the nation and strengthening overall defense resilience.

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The army has progressed from uniform deployment to dispersed deployment, and the next step is to integrate with tactical positions, gradually moving towards a combat-oriented direction, building a strong defense capability.