On a late‑Wednesday televised address, President Donald Trump announced a $11.15 billion arms package to Taiwan that has already drawn a sharp rebuke from Beijing.
Package Details
The eight sales agreements cover 82 HIMARS, 420 ATACMS, 60 self‑propelled howitzers, and a range of drones, software, missiles, spare parts, and refurbishment kits, totaling $11.15 billion per Taiwan’s Defense Ministry.
U.S. Rationale
The State Department said the sales support Taiwan’s modernization and credible defensive capability, and will help maintain political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region.
China’s Response
China’s Foreign Ministry said the package violates diplomatic agreements, harms China’s sovereignty and security, and undermines regional stability. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned that the sale would turn Taiwan into a powder keg and accelerate a dangerous military confrontation.
Taiwan’s Reaction
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry thanked the U.S. and said the arms will sustain sufficient self‑defense capabilities and deterrence, forming the foundation for regional peace and stability. Foreign Minister Lin Chia‑lung echoed the thanks, citing the support as key to deterring conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
Broader Context
The package follows Taiwan’s pledge to raise defense spending to 3.3 % of GDP next year and reach 5 % by 2030, and President Lai Ching‑te’s $40 billion budget for an air‑defense system called Taiwan Dome. The U.S. boost is also reflected in the National Defense Authorization Act, which the Senate passed on Wednesday and that Trump is expected to sign.
Key Takeaways
- $11.15 billion arms package, largest U.S. sale to Taiwan, surpassing Biden’s $8.4 billion.
- Package includes HIMARS, ATACMS, howitzers, drones, software, missiles, spare parts and refurbishment kits.
- China decries the sale as a violation of agreements and a threat to regional stability; Taiwan welcomes the support.
With the U.S. Senate already approving the legislation that underpins the package, the deal underscores the growing strategic competition in the Taiwan Strait and the broader U.S.–China rivalry.
