Taipei announced Thursday that Washington has approved an $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan, representing one of the largest weapons packages intended to deter potential Chinese invasion. The sale, which includes HIMARS rocket systems, howitzers, anti-tank missiles, and drones, is subject to approval by the US Congress.
Increased Military Support
This announcement follows a $330 million sale of parts and components in November and marks the second arms sale to Taiwan during the current term of US President Donald Trump. While the United States has traditionally been Taiwan’s primary arms supplier, previous statements by President Trump had created some uncertainty regarding the extent of US support for the democratic island.
Taiwan has been increasing its defence spending over the past decade in response to intensified military pressure from China. The Trump administration has also encouraged Taiwan to bolster its self-defence capabilities. The latest package is comparable in potential value to an $18 billion authorization made under former President George W. Bush in 2001, though that figure was later reduced due to commercial negotiations. Ultimately, Bush authorized $15.6 billion in weapons sales to Taiwan during his presidency.
Congressional Approval and Taiwanese Response
The $11 billion sale is anticipated to receive swift congressional approval, reflecting bipartisan support for Taiwan’s defence. Taiwan’s foreign ministry stated that the sale “once again demonstrates the US’s firm commitment to Taiwan’s security.” Taiwan’s defence ministry added that the sale will assist in “rapidly building robust deterrence capabilities.”
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te’s government has committed to increasing defence spending to over three percent of GDP next year, with a goal of reaching five percent by 2030, a move influenced by US encouragement. Plans are also underway to seek up to NT$1 trillion in special funding to enhance air defence systems and ammunition production and storage.
Regional Tensions
China has been conducting near-daily military operations around Taiwan, described by analysts as “grey-zone” tactics – coercive actions that stop short of outright warfare. Taipei’s defence ministry reported detecting 40 Chinese military aircraft, including fighters, helicopters, and drones, along with eight naval vessels, in a 24-hour period ending Thursday. On Tuesday, Beijing’s newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, transited through the Taiwan Strait.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the arms sale?
The arms sale includes HIMARS rocket systems, howitzers, anti-tank missiles, drones, and other equipment, according to Taipei’s foreign ministry.
Has the US always supported Taiwan’s defence?
Washington has traditionally been Taiwan’s biggest arms supplier, though remarks by President Trump previously raised questions about the extent of that support.
What is China’s response to these developments?
China has increased military pressure on Taiwan, conducting near-daily military operations around the island, including the recent transit of its newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, through the Taiwan Strait.
Given the ongoing military activity in the region and the stated commitment of both Taiwan and the United States to bolstering defence capabilities, what impact might these developments have on the long-term stability of the Taiwan Strait?
