The defense ministry has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Kaohsiung in southern Taiwan to move Arsenal 205 out of the city. The site has until now been used for the fabrication of rifles and artillery. The move will allow Kaohsiung more area for business use and it has been suggested that the site may become the biggest port-side economic zone in Taiwan.
Premier Lin Chuan attended the signing ceremony on Friday. He said many troops have been stationed in Kaohsiung in the past and that he appreciates the defense ministry’s move to help the city’s development.
“We expect Arsenal 205 to produce and fabricate new weaponry after moving away from Kaohsiung and continue to be an important unit for [our nation’s] defense infrastructure. We hope the new land opened up by the move will help the city move forward with its development," said Lin.
Arsenal 205 is worth NT$30 billion (US$950 million) and currently occupies 57 hectares in Kaohsiung’s central business area. The development plan after the arsenal’s move includes dedicated special trade areas, accommodation and public infrastructure.