Donald Trump’s administration has approved the sale of $11.1 billion worth of weapons to Taiwan, the second shipment since the US president returned to the White House in January, the Taipei government reported on Thursday (12/18/2025).
The democratically ruled island is seeking to increase its military spending as tensions rise with China, which claims the island as its own and has not ruled out taking control of it by force.
According to Taiwan’s Defense Ministry, the package approved by Washington includes eight items, including HIMARS missile systems, howitzers, anti-tank projectiles, drones and parts for other military equipment.
The United States does not recognize Taiwan as a country, but is the main guarantor of the security of the self-governing island.
Their arms deliveries are also an important deterrent against a possible attack from Beijing.
Second sale in the Trump administration
“This is the second arms sale to Taiwan announced during the second term of the Trump administration and once again demonstrates the United States’ strong commitment to Taiwan’s security,” Taipei’s Foreign Ministry said.
The Defense Ministry added that the sale is expected to officially take effect in about a month.
Although the agreement still requires approval from the US Congress, it is unlikely to fail given the bipartisan consensus on defending Taiwan.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s government has vowed to increase its investment in military technology in the face of Chinese pressure.
The island has its own defense industry, but its military would be significantly outnumbered in a conflict with China, so it remains heavily reliant on American weapons.
mg (afp, reuters)
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