In a move likely to provoke strong objections from Beijing, the United States has approved a proposed arms deal with Taiwan valued at $385 million. The package includes spare parts for fighter jets, radar systems, and communications equipment, according to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). This marks the 18th arms sale to Taiwan under President Joe Biden’s administration, signaling a sustained commitment to supporting the self-ruled island against increasing military pressure from China.
The proposed sale, which includes components for Taiwan’s fleet of F-16 fighter jets and radar systems, is estimated at $320 million. This will be sourced from existing US military stockpiles, with deliveries expected to begin in 2025. The DSCA stated that the package aligns with US national, economic, and security interests.
“This proposed sale serves US national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient’s continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability,” the agency said.
Another $65 million is allocated for follow-on support and equipment related to a tactical communications system, which enhances the island’s military connectivity and operational readiness.
Taiwan’s defense ministry welcomed the announcement, emphasizing the critical role of these items in bolstering the island’s air defense capabilities.
“The items will help maintain the combat readiness of the Air Force’s F-16 aircraft equipment and bolster our air defense,” the ministry said in a statement.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry added that the country remains resolute in strengthening its defenses amidst intensifying Chinese military activities. It reiterated the importance of the Taiwan-US security partnership, expressing gratitude for the consistent support from Washington.
Beijing, which claims Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, has long condemned US arms sales to the island. China has consistently warned that such actions interfere with its internal affairs and violate the “One China” principle.
The timing of the deal coincides with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s scheduled trip to three Pacific island allies, with stopovers in Hawaii and Guam. Such visits often draw Beijing’s ire, as they are seen as attempts to strengthen Taiwan’s international presence.
The arms deal comes at a time of escalating military tensions in the Taiwan Strait. China has intensified its “grey zone” tactics—strategies that involve coercive measures short of open warfare—against Taiwan. These tactics include frequent incursions into Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) by Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels.
In the 24 hours leading up to Saturday morning, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported detecting 18 Chinese aircraft, seven naval vessels, and two balloons operating near the island. These incursions underscore Beijing’s growing military assertiveness in the region.
While the United States does not maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it is the island’s largest arms supplier and most significant international backer. The Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 obliges Washington to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, a commitment reaffirmed by successive US administrations.
President Biden’s administration has ramped up arms sales to Taiwan, reflecting a strategic pivot to counter China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The recent deal brings the total number of arms packages approved under Biden to 18, highlighting a robust security partnership between Washington and Taipei.
The latest arms package represents a critical step in maintaining the operational readiness of Taiwan’s aging F-16 fleet, which forms a core component of the island’s air defense strategy. With deliveries set to begin in 2025, the spare parts and radar equipment will enable Taiwan to sustain its defensive capabilities in the face of growing Chinese military threats.
The deal underscores Washington’s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. By bolstering Taiwan’s defense capabilities, the US aims to deter potential aggression from China while reassuring allies in the region of its resolve to counterbalance Beijing’s growing military power.
Beijing is likely to view the deal as yet another provocation in the broader context of US-China tensions. Beyond Taiwan, the arms sale could impact ongoing diplomatic engagements between the two superpowers, potentially exacerbating strains over trade, technology, and territorial disputes.
The United States’ approval of the deal aligns with broader efforts among its allies to support Taiwan’s security. Japan and Australia, in particular, have voiced concerns over China’s military maneuvers near Taiwan and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.
China’s response to the arms sale is expected to be fierce. Beijing may resort to retaliatory measures, including economic sanctions or increased military activity near Taiwan. In the past, China has targeted US companies involved in arms sales with sanctions, a trend likely to continue.
The Taiwan issue remains a flashpoint in US-China relations. Beijing has not ruled out the use of force to achieve unification with Taiwan, which it views as a breakaway province. Conversely, Taiwan considers itself a sovereign state with its own constitution and democratically elected government.
The arms deal reflects a growing international recognition of the need to prepare for potential scenarios in the Taiwan Strait. While the US maintains a policy of strategic ambiguity regarding its defense of Taiwan, arms sales like this one signal a clear commitment to strengthening Taiwan’s deterrent capabilities.
