The United States has authorized $2 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, marking the first instance of Taiwan receiving an advanced surface-to-air missile defense system. This decision is anticipated to provoke a reaction from China.
On Saturday, Taiwan’s presidential office expressed gratitude to Washington for approving the potential arms sales. Under the leadership of the island’s new president, Lai Ching-te, Taiwan has been enhancing its defense measures in response to increased military threats from China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.
Recently, Beijing conducted military exercises surrounding Taiwan for the second time since President Lai assumed office in May. The U.S. serves as Taiwan’s most significant unofficial ally and is legally obligated to provide Taiwan with the resources necessary for its self-defense.
Karen Kuo, the spokesperson for Taiwan’s presidential office, stated that “strengthening Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities is the foundation for maintaining regional stability.”
The proposed sales package includes three National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and associated equipment valued at approximately $1.16 billion, according to the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs. Additionally, the package features radar systems estimated to be worth $828 million.
The Chinese government has not yet commented on the potential arms sales. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry noted that the NASAMS system has been proven effective in Ukraine and will bolster Taiwan’s air defense capabilities.
Chinese officials indicated that last week’s war games were intended to practice “sealing off key ports and key areas” around Taiwan. During these exercises, Taiwan reported an unprecedented one-day tally of 153 aircraft, 14 navy vessels, and 12 vessels from the Chinese government.