The Trump administration announced a major arms sale to Taiwan worth around $11bn. The package includes advanced rocket launchers, self-propelled howitzers, and multiple missile systems. US officials disclosed the deal late Wednesday. Congress must approve the sale before it can proceed. The administration described the move as part of its regional security strategy.
This deal marks the second weapons sale to Taiwan since Donald Trump returned to office in January. The administration continues to expand military cooperation with Taipei. Officials presented the package as a necessary response to rising regional tensions. The sale significantly strengthens Taiwan’s military capabilities.
China increases pressure on the island
China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and rejects its self-government. Beijing has steadily increased pressure through military drills. Chinese forces regularly enter Taiwan’s airspace and surrounding waters. These actions have raised alarm in Taipei and among regional partners.
Taiwan’s defence ministry welcomed the announcement on Thursday. Officials said the deal would help rapidly build strong deterrence capabilities. The ministry highlighted the importance of maintaining effective self-defence. Taiwan continues to face growing military threats.
US balances diplomacy with military support
The United States maintains formal diplomatic relations with Beijing rather than Taipei. Washington has followed this approach for decades. Despite this stance, the US remains Taiwan’s most powerful security partner. American firms supply the majority of Taiwan’s advanced weapons.
China has not commented on the latest announcement. Last month, Beijing criticised an earlier $330m deal. That sale involved fighter jets and aircraft components approved in November. China’s foreign ministry said the deal seriously violated its sovereignty and security.
Advanced weapons dominate 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 released the details Wednesday night. Officials said the systems provide 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 value. Analysts view the size as a strong political signal.
Trump’s earlier record on Taiwan
During his first term, Trump approved $18.3bn in arms sales to Taiwan. One package alone reached $8bn. That period marked the largest volume of approved sales. The new deal continues that trajectory.
The US State Department defended the agreement publicly. Officials said the sale supports Taiwan’s military modernisation. They added that it helps maintain credible defensive strength. Washington framed the move as serving national interests.
Taiwan expands defence spending
China has repeatedly pledged reunification with Taiwan. Beijing has not ruled out using force. Taiwanese leaders increasingly treat the threat as serious. 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 tensions continue to rise
China has become more assertive across the region. Neighbouring countries have reacted with concern. In June, Japan protested Chinese aircraft carrier drills in the Pacific. The exercise marked an unprecedented move.
Tokyo and Beijing have since exchanged sharp warnings. Japan’s prime minister suggested possible military action 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.
