Taiwan's Defense Ministry Releases Collectible Military Models in Snack Packs

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense has launched a unique initiative for this year's Armed Forces Day, releasing "Protect Taiwan Defense Guardian" snack packs that come with collectible miniature military models.

Each pack contains two bags of the popular "Gua Gua" snack and one of three randomly distributed DIY military models. This promotion highlights the ministry's recent strategy of releasing "complete set" collections to appeal to enthusiasts and collectors.

One of the models included is a miniature replica of the ALTIUS-600M attack drone, which the Taiwanese Army procured from the U.S. under the "Hunter Owl Project." This drone, developed by Anduril, is a tube-launched loitering munition capable of anti-armor operations and can be launched from various platforms.

Other collectible models represent key military assets: the HIMARS multiple rocket launcher system and the Patriot III missile system. These represent ground, air, and sea force highlights, effectively serving as a mini-guide to the Taiwanese military's new equipment.

The ALTIUS-600M drone is part of Taiwan's acquisition of 291 units, with the first batch delivered to the Army in August 2025. This rapid delivery marks a significant milestone in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. The ministry also plans to procure heavier-headed ALTIUS-700M and reconnaissance ALTIUS-600 ISR variants.

The snack packs also feature line drawings on the back, depicting the M109A7 self-propelled howitzer, MQ-9B drone, and Harpoon anti-ship missile. These correspond to ground firepower, aerial surveillance, and coastal defense, further enhancing the educational aspect of the promotion.

This campaign, alongside other recent military-themed merchandise like the "Han Kuang 42 Military Star Card Pack," demonstrates the military's creative efforts to integrate national defense education into public life and appeal to a younger demographic.