US strengthens security ties with Taiwan, approves $385 million arms sale

The US State Department has approved the sale of $385 million worth of military equipment to Taiwan, including spare parts for F-16 jets and radars, the Pentagon confirmed on November 29.

This announcement comes just before Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te embarks on a sensitive Pacific tour, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations, US law requires Washington to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself against potential Chinese aggression, a stance that continues to infuriate Beijing. Taiwan, which operates as a democratic entity, rejects China's sovereignty claims.

In response to Taiwan's growing defence capabilities, China has intensified its military pressure on the island, conducting two rounds of military drills earlier this year. Sources suggest that China may conduct additional exercises in coordination with Lai's upcoming tour, which includes stops in Hawaii and Guam — both key US military locations.

The Pentagon's Defence Security Cooperation Agency outlined the sale, which includes $320 million worth of F-16 spare parts, support, and advanced radar systems. Additionally, Taiwan is set to receive mobile communications equipment and support valued at approximately $65 million, with General Dynamics as the principal contractor for the latter.

Taiwan's Ministry of Defence has expressed that these sales are expected to be operational within a month and will bolster the island’s defence capabilities, helping to maintain the readiness of its F-16 fleet and fortify its overall defence posture.

“Taiwan and the US will continue to strengthen their security partnership and work together to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region,” Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said in a statement.

This approval follows the US government's recent announcement of a $2 billion arms package for Taiwan, which includes the delivery of a highly advanced air defence missile system, which was tested in Ukraine.

Lai will depart for Hawaii on November 30 for what is officially considered a stopover en route to the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau — three of the 12 countries that maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan. His trip also includes a stop in Guam.

China, meanwhile, has urged the US to be cautious in its dealings with Taiwan, warning against actions that might escalate tensions. However, the US State Department maintains that Lai’s transit is a routine and unofficial matter with no provocation intended.

By Tamilla Hasanova