US Announces Record $11.1 Billion Arms Sale to Taiwan, Escalating Tensions With China

The United States announced a $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan, aiming to bolster deterrence and deepen security ties amid rising tensions with China.

Taiwan said the United States is preparing to move ahead with what would be its largest-ever arms package for the island, worth about $11.1 billion, in a move likely to further strain U.S.-China relations.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense said on Wednesday, December 17, the proposed package includes HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems, heavy artillery, anti-tank missiles, drones and spare parts, reflecting a focus on mobile and precision weapons.

According to international media reports, Washington has increasingly encouraged Taipei to invest in systems suited for asymmetric warfare, enabling Taiwan to deter a much larger adversary by raising the costs of any potential military action.

The arms sale is currently in the U.S. congressional notification phase, during which lawmakers have the authority to block, delay or seek modifications to the deal under long-standing procedures.

Taiwanese officials say the proposal enjoys broad bipartisan support at home and fits into long-term plans to modernise the armed forces and strengthen defence capabilities in response to growing pressure from China.

The announcement comes as Taipei plans to increase its defence budget by around 20% next year, pushing military spending beyond 3% of gross domestic product, a step widely seen by Western analysts as a signal of commitment to the United States.

China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory and opposes any foreign arms sales to the island, has repeatedly warned Washington against such moves, raising concerns that the deal could further heighten tensions across the Taiwan Strait.

Meanwhile, China has strongly opposed the proposed arms package, saying any U.S. weapons sales to Taiwan violate the “one China” principle and undermine regional stability. Chinese foreign ministry officials have warned that Beijing will take “firm and resolute measures” to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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