Taiwan Begins Mass Production of Strong Bow Tien Kung III ABM Featuring AESA Radar and 70 km Interception Altitude

Taiwan has officially entered the mass production phase of its upgraded Tien Kung III surface-to-air missile system, marking a significant milestone in the nation's defense capabilities. This advanced version, developed under the Strong Bow program by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), represents a leap forward in Taiwan’s indigenous missile technology. It is designed to enhance the country’s ability to intercept high-altitude threats with greater precision and reliability.

Photo: National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology

The improved Tien Kung III system is engineered to counter both cruise missiles and high-flying ballistic missiles, with an interception ceiling reaching up to 70 kilometers. This capability significantly expands Taiwan’s defensive envelope, allowing it to respond more effectively to evolving aerial threats in the region. The missile’s high-altitude interception range is particularly critical in deterring long-range attacks and maintaining strategic stability.

One of the most notable advancements in this upgraded system is the integration of an active electronically scanned array (AESA) fire-control radar. This marks the first time a domestically produced surface-to-air missile in Taiwan has been equipped with such a sophisticated targeting system. AESA technology enables faster target acquisition, improved tracking accuracy, and enhanced resistance to electronic countermeasures.

The deployment of this system will complement Taiwan’s existing ground-based air defense assets, including the original Tien Kung III and the U.S.-made Patriot PAC-3 systems. By operating in tandem, these systems create a layered defense network capable of responding to a wide spectrum of aerial threats. This multi-tiered approach strengthens Taiwan’s overall defense posture and reduces vulnerabilities in its airspace.

The earlier version of the Tien Kung III, also known as Sky Bow III, laid the foundation for Taiwan’s modern air defense architecture. Measuring approximately 5.3 to 5.5 meters in length and about 0.4 meters in diameter, the missile was engineered for high-speed interception, reaching velocities of Mach 4.0 or greater. Weighing between 870 to 915 kilograms, its compact yet powerful design enabled rapid deployment and effective engagement of aerial threats.

Guidance for the original Tien Kung III relied on an inertial navigation system, supplemented by mid-course updates from ground-based phased-array radar. For terminal guidance, the missile employed an active Ku-band radar homing system, allowing it to lock onto targets with high precision during the final phase of flight. This dual-layered guidance mechanism ensured reliable interception even under challenging electronic warfare conditions.

The warhead used in the system was a directional fragmentation type, designed to maximize damage upon impact by dispersing lethal fragments toward the target. This configuration was particularly effective against fast-moving aircraft and missiles, increasing the likelihood of a successful kill. The missile’s solid propellant rocket motor provided consistent thrust and durability, making it suitable for rapid response scenarios.

In terms of operational capability, the legacy Tien Kung III could intercept aircraft at ranges of up to 200 kilometers and altitudes of around 30 kilometers. It was also capable of engaging cruise missiles, anti-radiation missiles, and short-range ballistic missiles (SRBM), offering a versatile shield against a wide array of threats. Its ability to operate autonomously or as part of a larger network allowed for flexible deployment across various defense platforms.

Another notable feature was its capacity to engage multiple targets simultaneously, enhancing its effectiveness in saturated attack environments. This multi-target capability made it a valuable asset in Taiwan’s layered defense strategy, especially in scenarios involving coordinated missile strikes. While the upgraded version now offers expanded capabilities, the original Tien Kung III remains a testament to Taiwan’s early strides in indigenous missile development.

The Strong Bow program reflects Taiwan’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technology amid growing regional tensions. By investing in indigenous systems, Taiwan not only reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers but also tailors its capabilities to meet specific strategic needs. The successful development and production of the enhanced Tien Kung III underscore the country’s growing expertise in advanced missile systems.