Trump Could Greenlight Historic $14bn US Arms Package for Taiwan
President Donald Trump is reportedly on the verge of approving a monumental $14 billion United States weapons package for Taiwan, which would represent the largest ever arms deal for the self-governing island. This substantial package, primarily featuring advanced PAC-3 and NASAMS air defence interceptor missiles, awaits Trump's final signature and could be announced after his scheduled visit to China from 31 March to 2 April 2026.
Strategic Timing Amid Diplomatic Sensitivities
Sources within the administration, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the matter's sensitivity, confirmed the deal has been kept confidential ahead of Trump's trip to Beijing, where he is set to meet President Xi Jinping. An announcement is anticipated upon his return. This timing aligns with a long-standing practice where US administrations have scheduled weapons approvals for Taiwan around delicate political engagements with Beijing.
"As soon as the president gives the thumbs up, those are ready to be officially announced. Everything is done," one source stated. Another source added that an additional $6 billion in "asymmetric" defence capabilities is also awaiting approval and could be announced in linked or subsequent packages, though specifics were not disclosed.
Navigating China's Firm Opposition
China, which considers Taiwan its own territory, has consistently and unequivocally opposed US arms sales to the island. President Xi Jinping previously cautioned Trump in February that such sales demand "prudence." China's foreign ministry reiterated this stance in a statement to Reuters, regularly demanding that the US cease selling weapons to Taiwan.
Despite these objections, the readiness of this arms package suggests the Trump administration intends to uphold, and potentially bolster, its support for Taiwan, thereby alleviating anxieties in Taipei. This move comes amid increasing military pressure from Beijing on the island.
Reassuring Taiwan Amid Uncertainty
Two Taiwan sources familiar with the matter indicated that Washington has repeatedly assured them of its support. Taiwan's defence ministry confirmed that arms procurement projects have completed "preliminary coordination" with the US side, with the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency providing information on items to be purchased and delivery schedules.
In January, Taiwan's defence ministry noted that an arms deal with the US covering four items was imminent, though details could not be disclosed before being provided to the US Congress, as per the usual approval process. Raymond Greene, Washington's top diplomat in Taiwan, emphasised in January that the US was "fully committed to delivering critical systems as quickly as possible."
Context of Trump's Taiwan Policy
Trump's National Security Strategy, issued last year, explicitly states that deterring conflict over Taiwan is a priority for Washington, "ideally by preserving military overmatch." However, Trump's comments, including a February remark to journalists that he was "talking" to Xi about Taiwan arms sales, have sparked speculation that he might scale back the long-standing US practice of providing Taiwan with defensive means, which is codified in US law.
Nonetheless, Trump's arms sales approvals to Taiwan in his second term have already surpassed the amount approved by his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden over four years. This includes an $11 billion package in December for various missiles, drones, artillery, and aircraft parts. Taiwan's parliament recently authorised the government to sign contracts for four weapons systems from that package ahead of formal spending approval to meet a signing deadline.
Balancing Trade and Security Interests
Some China observers have expressed concerns that Trump's pursuit of a favourable trade deal with Beijing might lead him to reduce US military backing for Taiwan. The New York Times reported last month that the package had been delayed to avoid upsetting Xi ahead of Trump's China visit. Beijing has sought to delay US arms sales to Taiwan and has been attempting to create a better atmosphere ahead of the summit, including by toning down military pressure on the island, according to another Taiwan source.
"We have confidence in Trump, though. Beijing has underestimated the strategic vision of the White House," the source remarked. A senior US official, responding to questions to the White House, confirmed more weapons approvals were in progress, stating, "Arms sales are working their way through the process. There is no change to our policy with respect to Taiwan."
The US State Department has expressed support for increased defence spending by Taiwan, reinforcing the commitment to its security amidst ongoing regional tensions.
