Washington Approves Major New Weapons Package for Taiwan

The United States has announced plans to move forward with more than $10 billion in new arms sales to Taiwan, marking one of the largest defense packages approved in recent years and drawing close attention from Beijing.

The package is expected to include advanced missile systems, air defense equipment, and other military hardware aimed at strengthening Taiwan’s ability to deter potential aggression. US officials said the sales are intended to enhance Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities and maintain stability across the Taiwan Strait.

The announcement comes amid heightened military activity in the region, with China continuing to assert its claims over the island and conduct large-scale drills nearby. Beijing has repeatedly opposed US arms sales to Taiwan, warning that such moves undermine regional security.

Taiwanese officials welcomed the decision, saying the new equipment will help modernize the island’s forces and improve readiness in the face of growing pressure. The government has emphasized that the purchases are defensive in nature and consistent with its strategy of deterrence.

US lawmakers have voiced broad bipartisan support for continued military assistance to Taiwan, framing the sales as part of a broader commitment to allies in the Indo-Pacific. Critics, however, argue that expanding arms transfers risks escalating tensions with China.

The sales will still require formal notification and implementation steps, with deliveries expected to take place over several years.

Author: M.J