Post by : Badri Ariffin

The U.S. government has sanctioned a significant arms sale to Taiwan valued at over $10 billion. This comprehensive package includes advanced missiles, howitzers, drones, and various military assets. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from China, which vehemently opposes foreign military support to Taiwan.

Components of the Arms Package

The U.S. State Department disclosed the transaction details late on Wednesday in a televised address by President Donald Trump. The announcement highlighted eight primary agreements:

• 82 HIMARS rocket systems

• 420 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), akin to those previously provided to Ukraine

• 60 self-propelled howitzer systems

• Drones valued at over $1 billion

• Military software costing over $1 billion

• Javelin and TOW missiles worth $700 million

• Helicopter spare components holding a value of $96 million

• Harpoon missile refurbishment kits valued at $91 million

The combined cost of HIMARS and ATACMS alone surpasses $4 billion, with the howitzer systems contributing an additional $4 billion.

Rationale Behind the Approval

According to the State Department, the sale reinforces U.S. national interests and objectives. It aims to aid Taiwan in modernizing its defense capabilities and sustaining robust military systems. Officials emphasized that this sale will:

• enhance Taiwan’s self-defense

• promote political stability

• ensure military equilibrium in the region

• accelerate economic advancement

Under national law, the U.S. is obligated to assist Taiwan in its self-defense endeavors. This commitment has become increasingly contentious as China raises military pressure on the island.

The Chinese Reaction

China views Taiwan as a part of its sovereign territory and has signaled that it may resort to force to unify the island with the mainland. The Chinese embassy in Washington issued a strong condemnation of the legislation surrounding the arms deal.

China contends that the U.S. is:

• overstating the “China threat”

• provocatively backing Taiwan’s military

• interfering in China’s developmental path

• undermining U.S.–China relations

Taiwan's Response

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry expressed gratitude towards the U.S., stating that the sale is crucial for maintaining defense and preventing conflict. Taiwan's Foreign Minister also highlighted the long-term support received.

Taiwan believes increasing military expenditure:

• is essential for ensuring peace

• protects the Taiwan Strait

• serves as a deterrent against potential aggressions

In support of this, Taiwan has announced plans to raise defense spending to 3.3% of its GDP in the coming year, targeting 5% by 2030. President Lai Ching-te recently unveiled a special defense budget of $40 billion, which includes a new air defense initiative termed Taiwan Dome.

Political Context

This arms sale coincides with new U.S. legislative measures likely to be ratified imminently. The National Defense Authorization Act incorporates heightened restrictions on China along with augmented military assistance for Taiwan. China has voiced strong objections to this legislative initiative.

The U.S. Senate approved the bill on Wednesday, and President Trump is anticipated to enact it soon.

This $10 billion arms agreement fortifies U.S.–Taiwan relations and enhances Taiwan’s defense framework. Nevertheless, it introduces further strain to the already tense U.S.–China diplomatic landscape. The deal may have repercussions on future diplomatic relations, regional stability, and military dynamics within Asia.

#Global News #Donald Trump #Trump