Taiwan Holds Preliminary Talks with US for Arms Purchases Under $40B Defence Budget
Taiwan Engages U.S. on Arms Purchases as Part of New US$40 Billion Defence Plan
Taiwan’s government has begun formal talks with the United States on procuring military hardware under a newly announced US$40 billion supplementary defence budget.
The spending plan—unveiled by President Lai Ching-te and set to run from 2026 to 2033—reflects Taiwan’s intent to significantly strengthen its defence posture amid growing pressure from People’s Republic of China.
According to Defence Minister Wellington Koo, Taipei has already received detailed information from the U.S. Department of Defense — including procurement items, prices, schedules and delivery timelines — underscoring Washington’s willingness to supply arms.
However, Koo noted that specifics will remain under wraps until a formal notification to the U.S. Congress.
The defence package comes amid mounting Chinese military and political pressure. Beijing condemned Taiwan’s plan, labeling it provocatively separatist. But Lai reaffirmed that only Taiwan’s people have the right to shape the island’s future
