The Trump administration announced a weapons sale to Taiwan worth roughly $11bn. The package includes advanced rocket launchers, self-propelled howitzers, and several missile systems. US officials released the announcement late Wednesday. Congress must still approve the deal before execution. The administration presented the sale as a strategic security step.
This represents the second arms sale to Taiwan since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January. The administration continues to strengthen defence ties with Taipei. Officials described the package as a response to escalating regional risks. The sale significantly enhances Taiwan’s military readiness.
Beijing intensifies military activity near Taiwan
China claims Taiwan as a breakaway province and opposes its self-rule. Beijing has steadily increased pressure through repeated military drills. Chinese aircraft and naval vessels frequently enter nearby airspace and waters. These actions have driven tensions higher across the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan’s defence ministry welcomed the announcement on Thursday. Officials said the deal would quickly reinforce deterrence capabilities. The ministry emphasised the need for dependable defensive systems. Taiwan faces mounting military pressure.
Diplomatic caution shapes US policy
The United States maintains formal diplomatic relations with Beijing rather than Taipei. Washington has followed this policy for decades. Despite this stance, the US remains Taiwan’s most significant military supporter. American suppliers provide most of the island’s advanced weapons.
China has not issued an official response to the announcement. Last month, Beijing criticised an earlier $330m sale. That deal included fighter jets and aircraft components approved in November. China’s foreign ministry said the sale damaged its sovereignty and security interests.
Costly weapons systems anchor the package
The deal includes High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems valued at $4bn. It also includes self-propelled howitzers worth another $4bn. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency published the details Wednesday night. Officials said the systems deliver greater 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 amount. Analysts interpret the size as a strong strategic message.
Trump extends record on Taiwan arms sales
During his first term, Trump approved $18.3bn in arms sales to Taiwan. One package alone reached $8bn. That period marked the highest volume of approved deals. The current sale follows the same direction.
The US State Department defended the agreement publicly. Officials said the sale supports Taiwan’s military modernisation. They said it preserves credible defensive capabilities. Washington framed the deal as serving national interests.
Taiwan accelerates defence investment plans
China has repeatedly pledged reunification with Taiwan. Beijing has never ruled out the use of force. Taiwanese leaders increasingly take 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 friction spreads across East Asia
China has grown more assertive across the region. Neighbouring countries have voiced concern. In June, Japan protested Chinese aircraft carrier drills in the Pacific. The exercise marked an unprecedented escalation.
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.
