United States to transfer $500 million in arms as aid for Taiwan

The United States is preparing a $500 million military aid package for Taiwan.

Reuters reports with reference to its own sources.

The US President Joe Biden’s administration plans to send these weapons aid to Taiwan using the same emergency authority that has been used for Ukraine.

The aid package to Taiwan involves sending weapons and support equipment from US stockpiles, using the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA).

This drawdown, which authorises the President to transfer articles and services from US stockpiles without congressional approval during an emergency.

As part of the 2023 budget, Congress authorized up to $1 billion worth of military aid for Taiwan.

A $500 million military aid package will be the first use of these funds. However, it is not yet known what exactly would be included in this defense assistance package and when it will be provided to Taiwan.

“Our approach remains consistent with longstanding US policy. We’re hard at work fulfilling our obligations under the Taiwan Relations Act, and we’re going to continue to do so,” the Pentagon spokesperson said.

It should be noted that since 1979, the US-Taiwan relationship has been governed by the Taiwan Relations Act, which gives a legal basis to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, but does not mandate that the United States come to Taiwan’s aid if attacked.

Reuters reminds that Taiwan has since last year complained of delays to US weapon deliveries. It was reported that there is a backlog in the supply of weapons worth $19 billion. Taiwan, in particular, expects Harpoon anti-ship missiles and F-16 fighter jets.

Although Taiwanese officials do not say they believe a Chinese invasion is inevitable, they recognize how difficult it will be to defend their island. Experts warn that replenishing Taiwan’s arms stockpile during a conflict would be virtually impossible, so supplying weapons before the need arises is key.

In April this year, it became known that Taiwan would receive 400 American ground-based anti-ship missiles to repel a possible attack from China.