The United States has approved arms sales worth $385 million to Taiwan, signaling continued support for the self-ruled island amid escalating military pressure from China. The deal includes spare parts for F-16 fighter jets, radar systems, and tactical communication equipment, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on Friday.
The proposed sale of F-16 and radar system components, valued at $320 million, will be sourced from existing U.S. military stocks, with deliveries set to begin in 2025. Additionally, $65 million worth of follow-on support and equipment for a tactical communications system is included in the package.
In its statement, the DSCA highlighted the strategic importance of the sales:
“This proposed sale serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient’s continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and maintain a credible defensive capability.”
The deal is intended to bolster Taiwan’s ability to counter current and future threats, particularly by enhancing the operational readiness of its fleet of F-16 aircraft.
Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing the importance of the equipment in maintaining the combat readiness of its Air Force and strengthening its air defense.
Taiwan and the United States will continue to consolidate our security partnership,” the ministry stated.
The foreign ministry noted that this marks the 18th arms package approved under President Joe Biden’s administration. It reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to bolstering its defenses against China’s military pressure and “grey zone harassment,” referring to tactics that fall short of direct military conflict.
China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, has long opposed U.S. arms sales to the island. Beijing has increased military activity around Taiwan in recent years, with frequent deployments of fighter jets, warships, and other military assets near the island.
On Saturday, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported detecting 18 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels, and two balloons in its vicinity within a 24-hour period.
The announcement coincided with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s planned departure for a diplomatic trip to three Pacific island allies, with scheduled stopovers in Hawaii and Guam. While the U.S. does not maintain official diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it remains the island’s most significant ally and largest arms supplier.
The Biden administration’s approval of these arms sales underscores Washington’s ongoing commitment to Taiwan’s security amid heightened regional tensions.
