In a significant boost to Taiwan’s defensive capabilities, the Pentagon has confirmed the sale of sophisticated air defense systems valued at approximately $700 million. The transaction involves the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), a battle-tested platform currently deployed in Ukraine’s defense against Russian aerial attacks.
RTX, the American defense manufacturer, secured a firm fixed-price contract to supply three NASAMS units to Taiwan, with delivery and installation scheduled for completion by February 2031. The Pentagon allocated nearly $699 million from fiscal year 2026 foreign military sales funds specifically designated for Taiwan. This makes Taiwan only the third nation in the Indo-Pacific region to operate NASAMS, alongside Australia and Indonesia, and represents a new capability in the island’s defense arsenal.
Senior American diplomatic officials stationed in Taipei delivered strong reassurances about Washington’s enduring commitment to the island’s security. During remarks to the business community, these officials emphasized that American support manifests through concrete actions, particularly in defense industrial cooperation, rather than empty promises. The strategic objective centers on empowering Taiwan to maintain regional peace through demonstrated defensive strength.
This weapons package arrives just days after another major sale authorization worth $330 million for fighter jet components and aircraft parts. The two transactions together represent $1 billion in approved military equipment sales within a single week, marking a substantial acceleration of defense cooperation. The fighter aircraft parts deal carried additional significance as the first such approval since the new administration began its term in January, receiving appreciation from Taipei while drawing criticism from Beijing.
The backdrop to these sales includes deteriorating diplomatic relations between Beijing and Tokyo concerning Taiwan, which China claims as its territory despite Taipei’s rejection of such assertions. Recent incidents include Chinese coast guard vessels operating near contested East China Sea islands and drone flights through sensitive airspace near Japanese territory. Taiwan’s defense minister has publicly called on China to renounce the use of force in dispute resolution. The island faces near-constant military activities by Chinese forces, which Taiwan characterizes as deliberate pressure tactics. Despite lacking formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, the United States maintains legal obligations to provide defensive armaments, ensuring the island can protect itself against potential aggression.