In a televised address, President Donald Trump announced a $11.15 billion arms package to Taiwan, including missiles, howitzers, and drones, drawing an angry response from China.
Arms package details
The package, announced in eight separate agreements, contains 82 HIMARS, 420 ATACMS, 60 self‑propelled howitzers, and a range of drones. Software, Javelin and TOW missiles, helicopter spare parts, and Harpoon refurbishment kits are also part of the deal, bringing the total to $11.15 billion.
Chinese reaction
China’s Foreign Ministry blasted the move, saying it violates diplomatic agreements and harms China’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned that the ‘Taiwan independence’ forces are turning Taiwan into a powder keg and that the U.S. support will only accelerate a dangerous situation of military confrontation and war.
Taiwan’s response
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry thanked the U.S. and said the sale would help maintain sufficient self‑defense capabilities and provide strong deterrent capabilities, calling the bolstering of defense a foundation for regional peace and stability. Foreign Minister Lin Chia‑lung also thanked the U.S. for its long‑term support for regional security and Taiwan’s self‑defense capabilities, noting they are key for deterring conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
Broader context
The arms sale follows the U.S. Senate’s passage of the National Defense Authorization Act, which Trump is expected to sign. The Chinese embassy in Washington denounced the bill, saying it unfairly targeted China as an aggressor. Taiwan plans to raise defense spending to 3.3 % of GDP next year and to 5 % by 2030, and President Lai Ching‑te announced a special $40 billion budget for arms purchases, including the Taiwan Dome air‑defense system, to be spent from 2026 to 2033.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. package totals $11.15 billion and includes HIMARS, ATACMS, howitzers, drones, and software.
- China condemns the sale as a violation of diplomatic agreements and a threat to its sovereignty.
- Taiwan welcomes the aid, citing it as essential for maintaining deterrence and regional stability.
The announcement marks the largest U.S. weapons package to Taiwan in history, reflecting heightened tensions between the U.S. and China over Taiwan’s security.
