US Approves Potential $11bn Arms Sale to Taiwan

Washington has approved a potential $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan, Taipei announced on Thursday, marking one of the largest weapons packages ever proposed for the self-ruled island as it seeks to deter a possible Chinese invasion.

The sale, which still requires approval from the US Congress, would be the second arms package to Taiwan since President Donald Trump returned to office in January, following a $330 million deal for parts and components approved in November.

According to Taiwan’s foreign ministry, the latest package includes HIMARS rocket systems, howitzers, anti-tank missiles, drones, and other military equipment.

“This is the second arms sale to Taiwan announced during the Trump administration’s second term, once again demonstrating the US’s firm commitment to Taiwan’s security,” the ministry said.

The size of the proposed deal rivals the $18 billion arms package authorised under former US President George W. Bush in 2001, although that figure was later reduced. During Bush’s presidency, Taiwan ultimately purchased $15.6 billion in weapons, while Trump approved about $10 billion in arms sales during his first term, including $8 billion for fighter jets.

Despite occasional remarks by Trump that raised questions about US willingness to defend Taiwan, analysts expect the latest sale to receive swift congressional approval, given strong bipartisan support for Taiwan’s defense.

Taiwan maintains its own defense industry but remains heavily reliant on US weapons, as it would be significantly outmatched in any direct conflict with China.

Taiwan’s defense ministry said the arms sale shows Washington’s continued support in helping the island “rapidly build robust deterrence capabilities.”

President Lai Ching-te’s government has pledged to increase defense spending to over 3% of GDP next year and 5% by 2030, partly in response to US pressure. Taipei is also seeking up to NT$1 trillion in special funding to strengthen air defenses and expand ammunition production and storage, though these plans require approval from the opposition-controlled parliament.

China has stepped up military pressure on Taiwan, conducting near-daily “grey-zone” operations involving aircraft and naval vessels around the island. Taiwan’s defense ministry said 40 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval vessels were detected near the island within a 24-hour period ending early Thursday.

Earlier this week, Beijing’s newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, sailed through the Taiwan Strait, further heightening regional tensions.