US Announces Over $10 Billion Arms Sales to Taiwan Amid Regional Tensions
The US State Department has announced arms sales to Taiwan totaling more than $10 billion across eight agreements. The package includes 82 HIMARS and 420 ATACMS missiles valued at over $4 billion, along with 60 self-propelled howitzers and related equipment also worth over $4 billion. Additional components include drones valued at over $1 billion and military software exceeding $1 billion. Further items such as Javelin and Tow missiles are valued at over $700 million, with helicopter spare parts worth $96 million and Harpoon refurbishment kits at $91 million.
The announcement was made during a nationally televised address by President Donald Trump, who framed the sale as advancing US interests and contributing to regional security. However, China has condemned the sale, asserting that it violates diplomatic agreements and threatens regional stability and sovereignty.
Taiwan has welcomed the package, with its defence ministry stating that the acquisitions strengthen the island's self-defence and deterrence capabilities. Taiwan plans to raise its defence spending to 3.3% of GDP next year and up to 5% by 2030. This is part of a proposed $40 billion arms budget for the period 2026-2033, which includes investments in the Taiwan Dome but faces legislative opposition.
US law obligates assistance to Taiwan's self-defence amid ongoing debate over funding arrangements. Notably, President Trump had previously suggested that Taiwan should pay for its own protection.
