US approves $11 billion Taiwan arms sale in largest package ever

The United States Department of War has approved an $11.1 billion arms deal with Taiwan, the largest weapons package the United States has ever offered the island. The agreement follows a November deal worth $330 million for spare and repair parts for aircraft.

The comprehensive package consists of eight separate purchases, including 82 HIMARS rocket systems and 420 ATACMS missiles valued at more than $4 billion, as well as anti‑tank and anti‑armor missiles, loitering suicide drones, howitzers, military software and parts for other equipment.

Taiwan’s defense ministry says the acquisition is essential for maintaining “sufficient self‑defense capabilities.” The United States, meanwhile, frames the sale as support for Taiwan’s “strong deterrent power” and its “asymmetric warfare advantages,” arguing that it helps preserve regional peace and stability.

The deal is currently at the congressional notification stage, giving lawmakers the opportunity to block or modify the sale. The Pentagon contends that the proposed sales advance U.S. national, economic and security interests by helping Taiwan modernize its armed forces and sustain a “credible defensive capability.”

This is the second major arms sale under the current U.S. administration, reflecting Washington’s ongoing encouragement for Taiwan to increase its military purchases. Although the United States officially upholds the One‑China policy and recognizes Taiwan as part of China, it continues to maintain contacts with Taipei, supply arms, and has pledged to defend the island militarily if a conflict with the mainland arises.

China reiterates its goal of “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan but warns it will not hesitate to use force should the island declare independence. While Beijing has not yet commented on the latest deal, it has consistently condemned U.S. military cooperation with Taiwan.

Taiwan’s defense ministry believes the package will markedly boost the island’s defensive capabilities and improve its ability to respond to potential security threats. As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely for its implications for regional stability.