Taiwan has signed six defense contracts with the United States worth more than $6.6 billion
The Taiwanese government has signed six major arms procurement agreements with the United States totaling more than $6.6 billion (NT$208.77 billion). The information was released by Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense.
Key contracts include the purchase of HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems for 123.5 billion New Taiwan dollars, M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzers for 73.89 billion, and the expansion of the missile arsenal for 5.32 billion New Taiwan dollars.
The other three agreements include:
- $5.13 billion for anti-tank missiles for the navy;
- $910.45 million for joint Taiwanese-American production of large-caliber ammunition;
- $22.87 million for consulting services on an integrated air defense system.
The deals were finalized after the U.S. agreed to allow Taiwan to defer payments for the purchase of 82 HIMARS units and 60 M109A7 systems. The delay was caused by the opposition-controlled parliament’s failure to pass a special defense budget proposed by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.
Amid growing tensions with China, Taiwan continues to strengthen its defense capabilities. President Lai Ching-te previously stated the country’s readiness to defend its sovereignty and respond to military pressure from Beijing.
Prior to this, Beijing had sharply criticized the Taiwanese administration, stating that the island was incapable of independently ensuring the stability of its supply chains.
As a reminder, China is tightening control over the use of drones in Beijing.
