On July 28, 2023, the United States pledged a $345 million weapons package for Taiwan. It includes MANPADS, surveillance, firearms, and missiles. Specific arms details were not disclosed, but it aims to bolster Taiwan’s self-defense capability.
Tensions escalated between China and Taiwan, with China claiming sovereignty and conducting aggressive military exercises nearby. The US supports Taiwan as its key arms supplier to deter China from any military action.
China condemned the package, viewing it as a provocation and a threat to peace. The US justifies it under the “one China” policy while maintaining unofficial ties with Taiwan.
This is the first major arms sale by the Biden administration to Taiwan, utilizing the Presidential Drawdown Authority. The PDA allows emergency transfers of articles and services to allies.
Despite likely angering China, the Biden administration remains committed to Taiwan’s security and defense. The package sends a clear message of continuous US support for Taiwan.
