The US is Taiwan’s most important international backer and arms supplier, despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties. China held war games around the nation late last month after the latest deal was announced. The arms sales announced last month cover eight items, including Lockheed Martin High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems and Altius loitering munition drones. “It is not that we are unwilling to explain — give us an opportunity to explain, a legal opportunity,” he added. Taiwan has to spend more, given the threat, Hsu said.

Source: Taipei Times January 15, 2026 17:12 UTC