U.S. Approves $10 Billion Arms Package for Taiwan, Likely to Heighten Tensions With China

By Blessing Nweke

The Trump administration has announced a sweeping package of arms sales to Taiwan valued at more than $10 billion, a move expected to further strain already fragile relations between Washington and Beijing.

The State Department disclosed the sales late Wednesday, coinciding with a nationally televised address by President Donald Trump that focused largely on domestic issues and made no direct mention of China or Taiwan. Despite the silence, the announcement underscores Washington’s continued support for Taipei amid China’s growing military pressure on the self-governing island.

The package includes eight separate arms sales agreements covering 82 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and 420 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), together valued at more than $4 billion. The missiles are similar to systems the U.S. previously supplied to Ukraine. Also included are 60 self-propelled howitzer systems and related equipment worth more than $4 billion, along with drones valued at over $1 billion.

Additional items include military software exceeding $1 billion, Javelin and TOW missiles worth more than $700 million, helicopter spare parts valued at $96 million, and refurbishment kits for Harpoon missiles worth $91 million.

In nearly identical statements, the State Department said the sales advance U.S. “national, economic, and security interests” and will help Taiwan modernize its military and maintain a credible defensive capability. Under U.S. law, Washington is required to assist Taiwan in its self-defense, a commitment Beijing strongly opposes.

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry welcomed the announcement, saying the weapons would enhance deterrence and help preserve regional peace and stability. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung echoed that sentiment, calling U.S. support critical to preventing conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

The sales come as Taiwan plans to boost defense spending to 3.3% of GDP next year and 5% by 2030, amid U.S. pressure for even higher outlays. China has condemned the move, accusing Washington of undermining its sovereignty and destabilizing bilateral relations.