Biden approves $571M in defense support for Taiwan

President Joe Biden has recently approved a significant defense support package for Taiwan, amounting to $571.3 million, according to the White House. In addition to this, the State Department has given the green light for the potential sale of $265 million worth of military equipment to the island.

This move comes in response to China’s recent show of force, with Taiwan reporting the largest massing of naval forces in three decades around the island and in the East and South China Seas. The United States is obligated by law to provide Taiwan, a country claimed by China, with the necessary means to defend itself, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between Washington and Taipei, much to Beijing’s displeasure.

Taiwan, a democracy that vehemently rejects China’s sovereignty claims, has been facing increased military pressure from Beijing, including frequent military activities near the island and two rounds of war games this year.

In light of these developments, President Biden has empowered the secretary of state to oversee the allocation of up to $571.3 million in defense articles and services from the Department of Defense, as well as military education and training, to support Taiwan. The specifics of this assistance were not disclosed in the White House statement.

Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed gratitude towards the United States for its unwavering security guarantee, emphasizing the continued collaboration between the two sides on security matters to uphold peace in the Taiwan Strait.

Furthermore, the Pentagon confirmed that the State Department has approved a potential sale of approximately $265 million in command, control, communications, and computer modernization equipment to Taiwan. This equipment is expected to enhance Taiwan’s command-and-control systems, bolstering its defense capabilities.

Additionally, Taiwan’s defense ministry revealed that the U.S. government has also given the green light for the sale of $30 million worth of parts for 76 mm autocannon. This development is seen as crucial in enhancing Taiwan’s ability to counter China’s “grey-zone” warfare tactics.

Overall, these recent defense support initiatives underscore the United States’ commitment to Taiwan’s security and stability in the face of escalating tensions with China. The collaboration between the two nations in the realm of defense underscores the importance of maintaining a strong deterrent against potential aggression in the region.