US Approves $360M Arms Deal with Taiwan Amid China Tensions

The United States has approved a $360 million weapons sale to Taiwan, which includes hundreds of armed drones, missile equipment, and related support material. The State Department stated that the sale supports U.S. national, economic, and security interests and aims to help Taiwan modernize its armed forces and maintain a credible defensive capability. The package consists of 291 Altius-600M systems and 720 Switchblade drones, along with additional support materials intended to promote political stability and economic progress in the region.

Taiwan's President, Lai Ching-te, expressed gratitude to the U.S. for the arms sale, emphasizing its role in maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This development occurs amid heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing, with China viewing Taiwan as part of its territory and threatening forceful reclamation if necessary. The U.S. has asserted that the sale will not disrupt the military balance in the region.