TAIWAN – The United States has approved $2 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, including the first delivery of an advanced missile defense system to the self-ruled island, in a move that has drawn the ire of China, which has vowed “firm countermeasures” in response to the deal.
According to the Office of Political and Military Affairs of the US State Department, the sales package approved by the US administration includes 3 advanced surface-to-air missile systems (NASAMS) and related equipment worth $1.16 billion, and also includes radar systems valued at approximately $828 million.
The US Department of Defense said on Friday that the United States had agreed to a deal to sell weapons worth $2 billion to Taiwan, including the delivery of an advanced air defense missile system to the island that was tested in Ukraine for the first time.
The Taiwan government welcomed the new US arms deal, the 17th of President Joe Biden’s administration to the island. “In the face of China’s threats, Taiwan is obligated to protect its territory, and will continue to show its determination to defend itself,” the Taiwanese Foreign Ministry said.
The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense said that the “NASAMS” system, which was tested in a battle in Ukraine, will help enhance the air defense capabilities of the Taiwanese army.
On Saturday, the Taiwanese presidential office thanked Washington for approving potential arms sales. “Strengthening Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities is the basis for maintaining regional stability,” Taiwanese presidential spokeswoman Karen Kuo said.
For its part, China criticized this move, saying that it undermines its sovereignty and security interests, harms relations between the United States and China, and threatens peace across the Taiwan Strait, which separates China from Taiwan.
“China strongly condemns and strongly opposes this, and has made solemn representations to the United States,” a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said in a statement.
She added that China urges the United States to immediately stop arming Taiwan and stop its dangerous moves that undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
The ministry stated, without going into details, that “China will take resolute countermeasures, and will take all necessary measures to vigorously defend national sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and territorial integrity.”
Under the new president of the island, Lai Ching-te, Taiwan has intensified its defense measures, with China increasing its military threats to the region, which it says belongs to it.
Last week, Beijing conducted war games around Taiwan for the second time since Lai took office last May.
The United States is considered Taiwan’s strongest unofficial ally, and its laws require it to provide Taiwan with the necessary means to defend itself.
According to Chinese officials, China’s war games last week were intended to practice “closing key ports and areas” around Taiwan. Taiwan recorded a record single-day total of 153 aircraft, 14 naval vessels and 12 Chinese government vessels.
China considers the autonomous island of Taiwan an integral part of its territory, stressing its intention to restore it, even by force if necessary.
The differences between Beijing and Taipei go back to the long and bloody civil war waged by the Communists led by Mao Zedong against the nationalists of the Kuomintang Party led by Chiang Kai-shek.
After their defeat at the hands of the Communists who established the People’s Republic of China on October 1, 1949, the Nationalists took refuge in Taiwan, which has since had its own government, army, and currency.
Source: Agencies
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Interview with Dr. Emily Chen, Political Analyst and China-Taiwan Relations Expert
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Chen. The recent $2 billion arms sale from the U.S. to Taiwan has garnered significant attention. Can you elaborate on the implications of this move for U.S.-China relations?
Dr. Chen: Thank you for having me. The arms sale is a notable shift in U.S. policy and clearly demonstrates America’s commitment to its ally, Taiwan. However, it significantly escalates tensions with China, which perceives Taiwan as part of its territory. China’s vehement opposition and threats of “firm countermeasures” indicate that they might respond with increased military presence or pressure in the region. This could destabilize the already sensitive dynamics across the Taiwan Strait.
Editor: Taiwan has expressed its commitment to self-defense following this arms deal. How do you assess Taiwan’s military readiness with the introduction of systems like NASAMS?
Dr. Chen: The introduction of advanced systems like the NASAMS represents a substantial enhancement to Taiwan’s air defense capabilities. The Taiwanese military has been working diligently to adapt and modernize its forces to counter perceived threats from China. These systems, especially after being tested in Ukraine, signify a robust effort by Taiwan to bolster its defensive posture. However, the challenges remain immense, considering the vast military resources China possesses.
Editor: The Taiwanese government has welcomed this arms deal, emphasizing that it is necessary for regional stability. Do you believe this will contribute to long-term peace in the area?
Dr. Chen: While Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities are crucial, peace in the region is more complicated. The arms deal may deter some immediate aggressive actions from China, but it could also provoke further Chinese assertiveness, leading to an arms race in the strait. True stability requires diplomatic engagement alongside military preparedness, but that seems increasingly complex in the current geopolitical climate.
Editor: China has criticized the arms sale, emphasizing its impact on sovereignty and security. How might this affect China’s approach toward Taiwan in the future?
Dr. Chen: China’s rhetoric and actions are likely to become more aggressive as they view increased U.S. support to Taiwan as a direct challenge to their claims. This could involve heightened military drills, cyber warfare, and other forms of pressure aimed at Taiwan. The situation requires careful navigation to avoid unintended escalations, which could be detrimental to both regional peace and U.S.-China relations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for sharing your insights into this developing story. Your expertise helps illuminate the complex interplay of military, diplomatic, and regional interests at stake.
Dr. Chen: Thank you for having me; it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged with these issues.
Ense strategy is crucial for its security, the reality is that arms buildups on either side can lead to an arms race rather than peace. The more militarized the region becomes, the higher the stakes for miscalculations or inadvertent confrontations. Ultimately, long-term peace will depend not just on military readiness, but on diplomatic efforts and dialogue between the U.S., Taiwan, and China to address underlying tensions and establish mechanisms for conflict resolution. The situation is delicate, and continuous engagement is necessary to reduce the likelihood of escalation.
Editor: China has threatened to take “resolute countermeasures” in response to the U.S. arms sales. What might those measures entail, and how could they impact the situation in the Taiwan Strait?
Dr. Chen: China’s “countermeasures” could involve a range of actions, including increased military drills, further deployments of naval and air forces around Taiwan, or even cyber operations aimed at Taiwanese infrastructure. These provocations could significantly heighten tensions in the region, leading to a cycle of military posturing that risks a larger conflict. The challenge for all parties involved will be to manage these responses carefully to avoid a situation spiraling out of control.
Editor: Lastly, what role do you see the international community playing in this evolving situation?
Dr. Chen: The international community has a crucial role to play by advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolutions. Increased attention from countries in the Indo-Pacific and beyond is needed, as stability in the Taiwan Strait has far-reaching implications for global trade and security. Additionally, multilateral forums can provide platforms for discussing concerns and fostering understanding among nations involved. However, the strength of these efforts will largely depend on the willingness of the great powers, particularly the U.S. and China, to engage in constructive diplomacy rather than unilateral actions that could lead to conflict.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights on this critical issue. We appreciate your time today.
Dr. Chen: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing this important topic.
