Washington approves $11 billion arms deal for Taiwan, the largest since 2001
In a move reflecting escalating geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, Taipei announced on Thursday that the US government had formally approved a massive $11.1 billion arms deal with Taiwan. This package, the second of its kind since President Donald Trump's return to power, serves as a direct deterrent against growing Chinese threats to the self-governing island.
Details of the deal and military capabilities
According to a statement from Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the deal includes eight major contracts aimed at significantly enhancing the island's defense capabilities. These include highly mobile HIMARS missile systems, advanced howitzers, anti-tank missiles, drones, and vital spare parts to maintain existing equipment. This equipment serves Taiwan's "porcupine" defense strategy, which relies on mobile and lethal weapons that are difficult for an enemy to target, thus increasing the cost of any potential invasion.
Historical context: The largest since the era of George W. Bush
This deal holds particular historical significance, ranking as the largest in terms of financial value since 2001. At that time, the administration of former President George W. Bush approved an $18 billion arms package. The return to deals of this magnitude reflects Washington's unwavering commitment, under the Taiwan Relations Act, to provide the island with what it needs to defend itself, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries. This has angered Beijing, which considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory.
Internal and external political challenges
Despite US approval, the deal faces a delicate procedural path. While the US Congress is expected to ratify it within a month, the biggest challenge lies within Taiwan. The Legislative Yuan (parliament), controlled by the opposition Kuomintang and the Taiwan People's Party, must approve the budget. This comes as Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has announced plans to increase defense spending by $40 billion, aiming to reach 5% of GDP by 2030.
Tensions in the Strait and Gray Zone Tactics
These developments coincide with China's intensified military pressure. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense recently detected the passage of China's newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, through the Taiwan Strait, in addition to the presence of 40 military aircraft and eight warships in the vicinity of the island within a 24-hour period. Experts describe these movements as "gray zone" tactics—hostile operations designed to wear down Taiwanese forces and intimidate the population without escalating into open warfare.
