US Arms Taiwan with $10 Billion Deal, Sends Strong Signal to China, Boosts Strategic Advantage for India

In a move that has escalated tensions in the Indo-Pacific, the United States has announced a $10 billion arms package for Taiwan, including missiles, artillery, drones, and advanced military equipment. The announcement comes amid growing friction between Beijing and Washington over Taiwan’s status, with China claiming the island as its own territory.

Strategic Significance for the Region and India

The arms deal is not only aimed at strengthening Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities but also carries significant strategic implications for India. China’s claims over Arunachal Pradesh as “South Tibet” have led to frequent incursions in Indian territory. With Taiwan’s military capabilities bolstered, China could face pressure on a two-front scenario, limiting its ability to engage aggressively along India’s borders.

This development also curbs China’s influence in South Asia, as its previous arms support to Pakistan during operations like Operation Sindhu demonstrated Beijing’s willingness to destabilize the region. Strengthened Taiwan-India ties, particularly in defense, trade, and technology, could now offer India additional strategic leverage.

Strengthening India-Taiwan Ties

India and Taiwan share deepening economic, technological, and cultural cooperation, even though formal diplomatic relations are constrained due to Chinese pressure. Collaborations are particularly strong in semiconductors, technology research, and investment, enhancing both countries’ strategic positions and mutual understanding of democratic values.

Details of the Arms Deal

The $10 billion package includes:

• 82 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) units
• 420 tactical missiles, similar to those provided by the US to Ukraine for defense
• 60 automatic howitzer guns with supporting equipment
• Advanced drones worth over $1 billion
• Military software, Javelin and TOW missiles ($700 million+)
• Helicopter parts ($96 million) and Harpoon missile repair kits ($91 million)

The deal is designed to modernize Taiwan’s military and enhance its defensive capabilities against potential aggression.

US Rationale

The US State Department stated that the arms sale would help Taiwan modernize its forces and strengthen defensive readiness, while supporting American national, economic, and security interests in the region.

China’s Response

China has strongly condemned the move, claiming it violates diplomatic agreements with the US and threatens China’s sovereignty, security, and regional stability. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned that supporting Taiwan’s independence with military aid could backfire on Washington, asserting that weapons cannot stop the mainland from pursuing reunification.

Taiwan’s Reaction

Taiwan welcomed the deal, with its Defense Ministry expressing gratitude. Officials highlighted that the package would strengthen Taiwan’s defense capabilities, enhance resistance potential, and contribute to maintaining regional peace and stability.

Rising Tensions in the Indo-Pacific

This arms sale is expected to further heighten US-China tensions in the region. As China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and is prepared to use force to assert control, Taiwan’s strengthened defense, backed by the US, complicates Beijing’s calculations. Analysts note that this move indirectly strengthens India’s strategic position, as China faces increased constraints on multiple fronts.

The $10 billion arms deal marks a significant milestone in US-Taiwan defense cooperation and has broader implications for regional security dynamics and India’s strategic leverage.