Washington, December 18, 2025 (Agencies) – The United States has formally approved a massive new arms package for Taiwan worth over $11 billion, the largest in history, in a move expected to heighten tensions with China.
The package, approved on December 18, 2025, includes advanced rocket systems, artillery, anti?tank missiles, drones, and critical spare parts aimed at strengthening Taiwan’s asymmetric defense capabilities. Among the key items are:
- Tactical Mission Network (TMN) for secure battlefield communications
- 82 M142 HIMARS rocket systems
- 420 MGM?140 ATACMS long?range precision missiles
- 120 M109A7 “Paladin” self?propelled howitzers and M992A3 ammunition carriers
- 1,545 TOW 2B BGM?71F?7?RF missiles
- 1,050 FGM?148F Javelin anti?tank missiles
- Seekers and repair kits for Harpoon anti?ship missiles
- ALTIUS?600M and 700M loitering munition systems
- Spare and repair parts for AH?1W “SuperCobra” attack helicopters
U.S. officials said the package is designed to bolster Taiwan’s ability to deter aggression and defend itself against potential military action. Analysts note that the inclusion of HIMARS and ATACMS significantly enhances Taiwan’s long?range strike capability, while loitering munitions and Javelins strengthen its anti?armor defenses.
China has condemned the announcement, warning that the deal undermines regional stability and violates its “One China” principle. Beijing has vowed “resolute countermeasures” in response.
The arms package underscores Washington’s commitment to Taiwan’s security amid escalating Chinese military drills in the Taiwan Strait. Defense experts describe the deal as a historic turning point, reshaping Taiwan’s defense posture and intensifying U.S.–China strategic rivalry in the Indo?Pacific.