The Trump administration announced a weapons sale to Taiwan worth about $11bn. The package includes advanced rocket launchers, self-propelled howitzers, and multiple missile systems. US officials shared details late Wednesday. Congress must approve the deal before it moves forward. The administration framed the sale as a security measure.
This deal marks the second arms sale to Taiwan since Donald Trump returned to office in January. The administration continues to expand defence cooperation with Taipei. Officials described the package as a response to rising regional threats. The sale significantly upgrades Taiwan’s military capabilities.
China maintains pressure on Taiwan
China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and opposes its self-rule. Beijing has steadily increased pressure through frequent military drills. Chinese aircraft and naval vessels regularly enter nearby airspace and waters. These activities have heightened tensions across the region.
Taiwan’s defence ministry welcomed the announcement on Thursday. Officials said the deal would rapidly strengthen deterrence capabilities. The ministry highlighted the importance of reliable defensive systems. Taiwan faces increasing military challenges.
Longstanding diplomacy shapes US approach
The United States maintains formal diplomatic relations with Beijing rather than Taipei. Washington has followed this policy for decades. Despite this position, the US remains Taiwan’s key military supporter. American suppliers provide most advanced weapons to the island.
China has not officially responded to the announcement. Last month, Beijing criticised an earlier $330m sale. That deal involved fighter jets and aircraft components approved in November. China’s foreign ministry said the sale harmed its sovereignty and security.
High-value weapons lead the deal
The package includes High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems valued at $4bn. It also includes self-propelled howitzers worth another $4bn. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency released details Wednesday night. Officials said the systems improve mobility and precision.
If approved, the sale will exceed previous arms deals in scale. Nineteen sales under the previous administration totalled $8.38bn. This single package surpasses that combined figure. Analysts view the size as a strategic signal.
Trump builds on earlier arms sales
During his first term, Trump approved $18.3bn in arms sales to Taiwan. One package alone reached $8bn. That period marked the largest volume of approved deals. The new sale continues that pattern.
The US State Department defended the agreement. Officials said the sale supports Taiwan’s military modernisation. They said it maintains credible defensive capabilities. Washington described the deal as serving national interests.
Taiwan plans higher defence spending
China has repeatedly pledged reunification with Taiwan. Beijing has not ruled out the use of force. Taiwanese leaders increasingly treat the threat seriously. The government plans to raise defence spending above 3% of GDP next year. Officials aim to reach 5% by 2030.
In October, President Lai Ching-te announced plans for a new air defence system. He described it as protection against hostile threats. He avoided naming China directly. The system will resemble a dome-style shield.
Regional tensions continue to rise
China has grown more assertive across the region. Neighbouring countries have raised concerns. In June, Japan protested Chinese aircraft carrier drills in the Pacific. The exercise marked an unprecedented move.
Tokyo and Beijing have since exchanged sharp warnings. Japan’s prime minister suggested possible military involvement if China attacks Taiwan. Tensions escalated this month near disputed islands. Vessels from both sides confronted each other at sea. Chinese fighter jets also locked radar onto Japanese aircraft.
