The United States has greenlit a $385 million arms deal with Taiwan, including spare parts for F-16 fighter jets, radar systems, and tactical communications equipment, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on Friday.
The package consists of two separate sales: $320 million worth of equipment for maintaining Taiwan’s F-16 fleet and radar systems and a $65 million deal for follow-on support of tactical communications systems. Deliveries for the F-16 components are slated to begin in 2025.
“This proposed sale supports US national, economic, and security interests by enhancing Taiwan’s defense capabilities,” the DSCA stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the island’s operational readiness against current and future threats.
Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed gratitude, stating the equipment would bolster its air defense and combat readiness. The foreign ministry noted this was the 18th arms package approved by President Joe Biden’s administration, underscoring the growing US-Taiwan security partnership.
The announcement coincides with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s diplomatic trip to Pacific allies, with stopovers in Hawaii and Guam. Meanwhile, China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, strongly condemned the sales. Beijing has consistently opposed US military support for the island, citing it as interference in its internal affairs.
China’s military activities near Taiwan have intensified, with Taiwan’s defense ministry reporting 18 Chinese aircraft, seven naval vessels, and two balloons operating near its territory within the last 24 hours. The arms package signals Washington’s continued commitment to supporting Taiwan amid escalating military pressures from Beijing.
