Taiwan signs $761 mn with US for Namas defence package as China builds pressure

Taiwan has finalised a new missile agreement with the United States to strengthen the defense of Taipei and critical infrastructure against a potential attack by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

According to contract details published on the government procurement platform on Monday, Taiwan will spend NT$24.98 billion (US$761 million) to acquire three National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) from the US.

Although the deal was approved in October under then-President Joe Biden, it is technically the first to be signed under President Donald Trump’s administration. Full delivery of ammunition is expected by the end of 2030.

NASAMS integrates the MPQ-64 “Sentinel” radar, multiple types of short- and medium-range air defense missiles, and the Link 16 military tactical data link, enabling defense against aircraft within a 40 to 50-kilometer range.

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The United States is Taiwan’s most important international backer and arms supplier even in the absence of formal diplomatic ties. China has repeatedly demanded Washington stop selling weapons to Taipei, which it claims as its territory.

Taiwan, which operates under a democratic government rejects China’s sovereignty claims. Beijing has been intensifying military pressure on the island including conducting two rounds of military drills this year. Security sources told Reuters that additional exercises might coincide with President Lai’s Pacific tour which includes stopovers in Hawaii and Guam, a US territory.

Taiwan’s defense ministry said that the sale is expected to “take effect” within a month, emphasizing that the equipment will enhance the readiness of its F-16 fleet and contribute to building a credible defense force.

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A military source told CNA on Monday that the latest announcement pertains to Taiwan’s purchase of three NASAMS units and is linked to a previous notice regarding “parts and components for air defense missile systems” posted on the procurement platform last month.