TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The U.S. government has approved a record-breaking US$11.154 billion (around NT$351 billion) arms sale to Taiwan, the Ministry of National Defense (國防部) announced on Thursday (Dec. 18). This weapons deal marks the largest in history for Taiwan, signaling a significant boost to the country's defense capabilities amid heightened tensions with mainland China, the People's Republic of China.
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed the sale includes eight categories of equipment, such as High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), howitzers, Javelin anti-tank missiles, and attack drones. These acquisitions aim to enhance Taiwan's overall defense and long-range strike capabilities as the island faces increasing military and diplomatic pressure from Beijing, China's capital.
U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has announced two arms sales to Taiwan, reflecting U.S. support for Taiwan's defensive posture against regional threats. This latest announcement comes as the arms sale enters the stage involving notification of the U.S. Congress, the U.S. legislature, with expectations for it to take effect in one month.
The approval comes during a spike in tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. In November, Japan's prime minister Sanae Takaichi stated that Chinese military action against Taiwan could trigger a response from Japan, with China reacting by launching military drills and applying economic pressure. Meanwhile, a NT$1.2 trillion (around US$38 billion) special defense budget initiated by the ruling party remains stuck in Taiwan's legislature, the parliament. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.5)
