Biden administration unveils $345 million arms package destined for Taiwan

The Biden administration has announced that it will be sending Taiwan a $345 million package of weapons from U.S. stockpiles. This is a significant move, as it marks the first time the U.S. is using its presidential drawdown authority to provide equipment to Taiwan. Congress has authorized about $1 billion for such drawdown packages, specifically for Taiwan, in the annual defense bill for the 2023 fiscal year.

Utilizing U.S. inventories for drawdowns allows for a quicker transfer of equipment, as seen with the more than 40 drawdowns that have been sent to Ukraine since August 2021. By bypassing the foreign-military sales process, which often takes years, weapons and equipment can be delivered more efficiently. The specific contents of the drawdown package for Taiwan and its delivery date have not yet been disclosed.

This transfer of equipment is part of the U.S.’ commitment to supporting Taiwan’s self-defense and deterring potential Chinese aggression. China is increasing its military capabilities and aims to potentially invade Taiwan by 2027, although senior U.S. officials emphasize that this does not necessarily mean an attack or invasion is imminent.

Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Mark Milley stated, “The decision-making process would still have to occur. You want to make sure every single day President Xi wakes up and says today’s not that day, and that that decision never comes. That’s the whole essence of deterrence.”

The announcement of this arms transfer is likely to upset Beijing, especially as the U.S. and China have been attempting to improve their relations following the Chinese spy balloon incident. While senior leaders from both countries have met over the summer, military-to-military relations remain stagnant. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has yet to meet with his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu since Li took office in March.