US-Taiwan Military Cooperation

Why in the News

Recently, the US approved the sale of military equipment and components worth $330 million to Taiwan.

US-Taiwan Defense Cooperation: Key Points

• The approval of the recent defense deal is the first military deal since Donald Trump's return to the White House.
• Taiwan has sought non-standard components, spare parts, and repair support for F-16, C-130, and Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) aircraft.
• The US is Taiwan's largest arms supplier and is considered a key security pillar against potential Chinese aggression.
• Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te is seeking to increase the defense budget to 5% of GDP by 2030 and increase investment in the US.

Significance and Implications

• This military package from the US will strengthen Taiwan's air defense capabilities.
• Given China's increasing military activities, this deal enhances Taiwan's deterrence capabilities.
• Amid China-Taiwan tensions, this US move has wide-ranging implications for the Indo-Pacific security architecture, the strategic interests of the Quad countries, and the regional balance of power.
• China considers this deal a violation of its sovereignty. Consequently, this move could further escalate tensions between Beijing and Washington.
• Japan's recent statement on the possibility of sending troops to defend Taiwan under "collective self-defense" has further angered China.
• In such an environment, US arms sales further intensify strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.