The US State Department’s approval this week of a US$11.1 billion weapons package for Taiwan – reportedly the largest in the island’s history – dovetails with Taipei’s effort to show US President Donald Trump it is doing more to defend itself, even as it shifts towards a less conventional “porcupine” strategy, analysts said.
“These are asymmetric weapons that are focused on bolstering the capability of Taiwan’s military to prevent a PLA invasion,” said Bonnie Glaser, vice-president of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, referring to the People’s Liberation Army.
“One of Trump’s priorities is to avoid getting the US embroiled in a war. He wants Taiwan to spend more on its defence and acquire capabilities to defend itself. This package is consistent with that logic.”
Late Wednesday, the US State Department announced the approval, which includes US$4 billion for 82 High Mobility Rocket Systems, or Himars, and US$4 billion for 60 Self-Propelled Howitzers along with a combined US$3 billion for “tactical mission” software, anti-tank Javelin missiles, helicopter spare parts and kits to refurbish Harpoon anti-ship missiles.
Trump downplays Taiwan dispute in China talks
Trump downplays Taiwan dispute in China talks
