US announces enormous military aid package for Taiwan

Washington DC - The United States on Friday unveiled a $345-million military aid package for Taiwan designed to quickly bolster the island's ability to deter a Chinese invasion.

Taiwanese soldiers fly in US-made Black Hawk helicopters during the military Han Guang drill at the Taoyuan International Airport on July 26, 2023.
Taiwanese soldiers fly in US-made Black Hawk helicopters during the military Han Guang drill at the Taoyuan International Airport on July 26, 2023.  © Sam Yeh / AFP

The package – which an official said features intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance equipment and small arms munitions – will be drawn from the US' own reserves, allowing it to be delivered on a faster-than-usual timeline.

These are "capabilities that Taiwan will be able to use to bolster deterrence now and in the future," a Pentagon spokesperson said.

Elements of the package "address critical defensive stockpiles, multi-domain awareness, anti-armor and air defense capabilities," he added.

Russia sentencing of former US consulate worker condemned by State Department
Russia Russia sentencing of former US consulate worker condemned by State Department

"We are working expeditiously to deliver the military assistance announced today."

Taiwan thanks US for massive military package

A Taiwanese soldier launches a US-made TOW A2 missile during a live firing exercise in Pingtung county on July 3, 2023.
A Taiwanese soldier launches a US-made TOW A2 missile during a live firing exercise in Pingtung county on July 3, 2023.  © Sam Yeh / AFP

Taiwan's defense ministry thanked Washington "for its staunch commitment to Taiwan's security."

"The Presidential Drawdown Authority is another important support for Taiwan's self-defense in addition to weapons sales," ministry spokesperson Sun Li-fang said.

"Taiwan and the US will continue to cooperate closely in safety issues in order to maintain peace, stability and the status quo in the Taiwan Strait."

Russia hands former US consulate employee jail term for "secret collaboration"
Russia Russia hands former US consulate employee jail term for "secret collaboration"

Congress has authorized President Joe Biden to draw aid for Taiwan from American military stocks – the same way that Washington has provided large quantities of assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.

In the past year, the Chinese military has held two major drills around Taiwan, simulating targeted strikes and a blockade of the island.

China claims the democratic, self-ruled island of Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to take it, by force if necessary.

A statement from the White House announced the package of "defense articles and services of the Department of Defense, and military education and training, to provide assistance to Taiwan."

Cover photo: Sam Yeh / AFP

More on World: