Taiwan considers multi-billion dollar arms purchase from U.S. amid rising tensions

Taiwan is reportedly in talks to buy $7-10 billion in U.S. weaponry, including missiles and HIMARS, to bolster its defences amid rising Chinese military pressure. The move could further strain U.S.-China ties, as Beijing opposes foreign arms sales to Taiwan.

Taiwan, internationally recognised as a part of China, is reportedly in discussions to purchase advanced weaponry from the United States in a deal estimated to be worth between $7 billion and $10 billion. The move comes as Taiwan seeks to strengthen its defense capabilities in response to increasing military pressure from China.

According to sources familiar with the discussions, the proposed arms package includes coastal defense cruise missiles and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). These weapons would enhance Taiwan’s ability to defend itself against potential threats, particularly in the face of growing Chinese military activity in the Taiwan Strait.

The potential deal sheds light on the strong security partnership between the U.S. and Taiwan. The United States has long been a key supplier of arms to Taiwan, a move that has consistently drawn criticism from Beijing. China has repeatedly condemned foreign military support to Taiwan, arguing that it threatens regional stability and interferes in its internal affairs.

If the deal moves forward, it could further strain U.S - China relations, which have already been tense due to disputes over trade, technology, and military activities in the Asia - Pacific region.

At the same time, Taiwan is also investing heavily in its domestic defense industry to achieve greater self-sufficiency. Taiwan has been developing indigenous submarines, missile systems, and advanced fighter jets to reduce its dependence on foreign suppliers.

Read next

15:25

World News

China intensifies economic overtures toward Taiwan

Beijing is accelerating efforts to strengthen economic ties with Taiwan, using trade, business incentives and cultural programmes to increase cross-strait interaction amid persistent political and security tensions.

20:00

US senators visit Taiwan

US senators visit Taiwan to discuss trade, security, and strengthening ties

Three U.S. senators are visiting Taiwan this week to discuss a range of issues, including trade, security, and regional concerns, as Taiwan continues its tariff talks with Washington.

09:35

Taiwan

Taiwan to be Among First to Hold Tariff Talks with US, President Says

Taiwan will be included in the first group of countries to hold talks with the United States regarding tariffs, President Lai Ching-te announced on Friday.

05:00

IA

Western agencies warn of Chinese spyware targeting activists

Western intelligence agencies have issued a rare joint advisory warning of an increasing threat from Chinese surveillance tools targeting activists, journalists, and minorities.

05:51

World News

Taiwan tracks surge in Chinese warplanes and warships as Beijing ends drills

Taiwan has reported a sharp increase in Chinese military activity as Beijing concluded two days of war games around the island, intensifying tensions across the Taiwan Strait.