Loading...
Published by Aeyan Raza
December 18, 2025

The United States has approved its largest-ever arms sale to Taiwan, unveiling an $11.1 billion defence package at a time of escalating military pressure from China. The decision, confirmed on Wednesday by the Trump administration, marks the second major weapons deal with Taipei during President Donald Trump’s current term.
The move comes as Beijing intensifies military drills and diplomatic pressure around Taiwan, a self-ruled island that China claims as its territory. US officials say the sale is aimed at strengthening Taiwan’s ability to defend itself and maintain stability in the region.
According to Taiwan’s defence ministry, the proposed deal includes eight key military systems and support items. These feature:
1.HIMARS rocket launch systems
2.Advanced mobile howitzers
3.Javelin anti-tank missiles
4.Altius loitering drones
5.Spare parts and logistics support for existing equipment
Taiwanese officials say these weapons will improve rapid response capabilities and support modern, flexible defence strategies designed to counter larger forces.
Under US guidance, Taiwan has been shifting toward an “asymmetric warfare” approach. Instead of matching China weapon-for-weapon, the strategy relies on smaller, mobile, and highly effective systems like drones and missile launchers to deter or slow any potential invasion.
Security analysts note that systems such as HIMARS, which have proven effective in Ukraine, could significantly complicate any military action against Taiwan.
While the deal still requires approval from the US Congress, bipartisan support for Taiwan remains strong. US officials argue the sale aligns with American national security interests and helps maintain a credible balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.
Taiwan’s presidential office welcomed the announcement, reaffirming its commitment to defence reforms. President Lai Ching-te has already proposed a $40 billion defence budget for 2026–2033, calling national security “non-negotiable.”
China strongly condemned the deal, warning it threatens peace in the Taiwan Strait and encourages separatism. Beijing insists US arms sales will not stop China’s long-term goals, further highlighting strains in US-China relations.