U.S. Approves $11.1 Billion Arms Sales to Taiwan Amid Regional Tensions

The approvals occur as China continues to intensify military activities around Taiwan, including frequent incursions into its air defense identification zone.

US/INDO-PACIFIC — On December 17 the U.S. State Department notified Congress of eight foreign military sales to Taiwan totaling an estimated $11.1 billion. These packages focus on defensive systems and support, aligning with U.S. policy under Public Law 96-8 to aid Taiwan’s self-defense.

AH-1W helicopter

US Approves Nearly $2 Billion Foreign Military Sales To Taiwan, With NASAMs Implementation Requiring Assignment Of 60 US Personnel

Taiwan Calls China's Military Activities Recently "Quite Abnormal". Pentagon: Chinese Blockade On Taiwan Would Probably Fail

Taiwan Elects New Leadership: What Is Their Stance On Independence?

The approvals occur as China continues to intensify military activities around Taiwan, including frequent incursions into its air defense identification zone. Taiwan’s government views these transfers as vital for maintaining credible deterrence against potential aggression.

The U.S. assesses that these sales will not shift the regional military balance but will enhance Taiwan’s interoperability with allied forces.

China’s foreign ministry condemned similar past sales as violations of the one-China principle, warning of countermeasures that could strain bilateral relations.

U.S. congressional leaders support the moves as part of broader Indo-Pacific strategy investments. Academic assessments indicate these transfers raise invasion costs for China, potentially deterring conflict. Projections suggest Taiwan’s defense spending may rise to integrate the new equipment effectively.

Package Details: Tactical Mission Network Software, Equipment, and Services: