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4d ago

U.S. Approves Record $11.1 Billion Taiwan Arms Package

Congressional review now stands as the next step before delivery.

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A High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is on display at a park during Taiwan's annual Han Kuang military exercise in Taichung, Taiwan July 12, 2025. REUTERS/Ann Wang
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AICHUNG, TAIWAN - JULY 12: Soldiers of the 58th Artillery Command stand guard next to the HIMARS missile system that is mobilised to a tactical position, as part of the ongoing Han Kuang military exercise, in Taichung, Taiwan, on July 12, 2025. This is the first time for Taiwan to deploy the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) to this year's biggest-ever annual Han Kuang military exercise, which can be equipped with multiple 227mm rockets, or a single Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) that comes with a range of up to 300 kilometers. The 29 assets procured from the United States are part of Taipei's efforts to cope with escalating threats in the Taiwan Strait, as China has increased activities of the People's Liberation Army around the self-governing island. (Photo by Daniel Ceng/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Overview

  • State Department notifications cover eight sales including 82 HIMARS launchers, 420 ATACMS, 60 self-propelled howitzers, loitering drones, military software, and Javelin and TOW missiles.
  • The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress of the proposed sales, and final approval is expected to face bipartisan scrutiny with broad support reported for Taiwan’s defense.
  • Taipei welcomed the decision and tied key items to a proposed $40 billion special defense budget for 2026–2033 focused on precision, long‑range strike and other asymmetric capabilities.
  • Beijing issued formal condemnations, calling the move a threat to peace and warning the U.S. against supporting what it labels Taiwan independence.
  • The package follows a smaller November sale and comes as Taiwan reports frequent PLA flights and naval activity near the island, reinforcing the focus on deterrence against a potential invasion.