The Trump administration announced a new weapons sale to Taiwan worth around $11bn. The package includes advanced rocket launchers, self-propelled howitzers, and several missile systems. US officials released the details late Wednesday. Congress must still approve the sale before implementation. The administration linked the deal to regional security priorities.
This package represents the second arms sale to Taiwan since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January. The administration continues to deepen defence cooperation with Taipei. Officials described the move as a response to changing security conditions. The deal significantly enhances Taiwan’s military strength.
Beijing steps up military pressure
China regards Taiwan as a breakaway province and opposes its self-rule. Beijing has steadily increased pressure through large-scale military drills. Chinese aircraft and naval vessels frequently enter nearby airspace and waters. These actions have heightened tensions across the region.
Taiwan’s defence ministry welcomed the announcement on Thursday. Officials said the deal would accelerate the building of deterrence capabilities. The ministry stressed the need for reliable defensive systems. Taiwan faces mounting military challenges.
Diplomatic tightrope shapes US policy
The United States maintains formal diplomatic relations with Beijing rather than Taipei. Washington has followed this policy for decades. Despite this stance, the US remains Taiwan’s strongest military supporter. American companies supply most of Taiwan’s advanced weapons.
China has not publicly responded to the latest announcement. Last month, Beijing criticised an earlier $330m sale. That deal included fighter jets and aircraft components approved in November. China’s foreign ministry said the sale seriously harmed its sovereignty and security interests.
High-value systems anchor 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 published the breakdown Wednesday night. Officials said the systems improve mobility and precision.
If approved, the sale will surpass previous arms deals in size. Nineteen sales under the previous administration totalled $8.38bn. This single package exceeds that combined figure. Observers see the scale as a clear political message.
Trump expands previous arms sales record
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 deals. The current sale continues that pattern.
The US State Department defended the agreement. Officials said the sale supports Taiwan’s military modernisation. They said it helps maintain credible defensive capabilities. Washington described the deal as serving national interests.
Taiwan accelerates defence investment
China has repeatedly pledged reunification with Taiwan. Beijing has never ruled out using force. Taiwanese leaders increasingly take the threat seriously. 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 spread beyond the strait
China has grown more assertive across the region. Neighbouring states have voiced concern. In June, Japan protested Chinese aircraft carrier drills in the Pacific. The exercise marked an unprecedented escalation.
Tokyo and Beijing have since exchanged sharp warnings. Japan’s prime minister suggested possible military involvement if China attacks Taiwan. Tensions rose this month near disputed islands. Vessels from both sides confronted each other at sea. Chinese fighter jets also locked radar onto Japanese aircraft.
