US Announces Largest-Ever Military Aid Package for Taiwan
The United States has announced a record-breaking military aid package worth USD 567 million for Taiwan. This aid is issued under the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which allows the US to quickly deliver equipment and weapons from its existing stockpile to allied nations during crises.
Details of the Aid Package
US President Joe Biden has authorized Secretary of State Antony Blinken to manage the drawdown of up to USD 567 million in defense resources. This package will include military education, training, and various defense resources such as anti-armor weapons, air defense, and multi-domain awareness capabilities. Drones are also expected to be part of the package, which are crucial for the asymmetric defense strategy shared by the US and Taiwan against China’s larger military.
Strengthening US-Taiwan Relations
Over the past five years, US-Taiwan relations have significantly strengthened, featuring enhanced military cooperation and economic ties amid rising tensions with China. In 2021, a substantial arms deal was approved, including F-16 fighter jets and anti-ship missiles, reaffirming a strong commitment to Taiwan’s defense. Taiwan’s defense ministry recently announced that deliveries of F-16V fighter jets purchased from the US are expected to begin in 2026.
Support for Taiwan in International Organizations
The US has also supported Taiwan’s participation in international organizations and forums, despite Chinese objections. In 2021, the US backed Taiwan’s efforts to join the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). High-level meetings and dialogues between US and Taiwanese officials have further bolstered bilateral economic and technological collaboration, particularly in the semiconductor sector.
US ‘One China’ Policy
Despite this deepening partnership, the US maintains its ‘One China’ policy, officially recognizing Beijing’s claim over Taiwan while engaging with Taipei on an unofficial basis. This growing support has provoked strong reactions from China, which has increased military activities around Taiwan and condemned US actions as provocations.
Doubts Revealed
US -: The US stands for the United States of America, a country in North America.
Military Aid Package -: A military aid package is help given by one country to another, usually in the form of money, equipment, or training for their military.
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island near China. It has its own government, but China claims it as part of its territory.
Tensions -: Tensions mean that there are problems or conflicts between two groups or countries.
China -: China is a large country in Asia, known for its big population and strong economy.
USD 567 million -: USD 567 million means 567 million US dollars, which is a lot of money.
Presidential Drawdown Authority -: This is a special power that allows the US President to quickly send military help to other countries.
Defense Resources -: Defense resources are things like weapons, equipment, and training that help a country protect itself.
US-Taiwan Relations -: This means the way the US and Taiwan interact and work together.
One China Policy -: This is a policy where countries agree that there is only one China, which includes Taiwan, even if Taiwan has its own government.
