Biden’s daring act: A whopping $345m military aid to Taiwan stirs up tensions
In a striking response to China’s rising aggression, the Biden administration has thundered its support for Taiwan, sanctioning a jaw-dropping $345 million military aid package. This strategic move aims to shore up the island nation’s defense capabilities, challenging the encroaching threats from China.
Taiwan’s hunger for four MQ-9A reconnaissance drones from the US has been well-documented, yet it remains shrouded in mystery whether these coveted military assets are part of the colossal aid package. Both nations are keeping mum on the specifics of the weaponry included, citing a “tacit agreement” inked between them. Despite the hush-hush, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence couldn’t hide its gratitude, acknowledging the “US’s firm commitment to Taiwan’s security.”
The US’s substantial aid announcement follows hot on the heels of Taiwan’s inaugural military drill at Taoyuan International Airport. This calculated move had soldiers staging a defense against a simulated Chinese assault, suggesting Taiwan is gleaning strategies from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Taiwan’s military training has undergone an evolution, injecting civilian components into recent exercises for a comprehensive defensive approach.
US ramps up support for Taiwan against China with $345m military aid. Image courtesy of Clker-Free-Vector-Images from Pixabay.
Adding another layer to this intricate dance of diplomacy and defense, the White House last year was armed with a Congressional green light to funnel up to $1 billion worth of Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) weapons aid to Taiwan as part of the 2023 budget. The genius of PDA is its bypass of time-consuming arms manufacturer orders, enabling the US to directly dip into its reserves for Taiwan’s defense arsenal. This ensures a swift supply of critical military gear, further fortifying Taiwan’s defense.
However, the dark cloud of China’s disapproval looms large over the US-Taiwan arms dealings. Beijing views Taiwan as an inseparable piece of its territorial jigsaw and staunchly opposes any form of arms aid to the island. China’s resolve to reclaim Taiwan, even if by force, continues to cast a shadow over the region.
China’s military might has been increasingly flexed at Taiwan, marked by escalating naval and aerial activities near the island. Beijing has also rattled nerves with two sizable military drills this year, mimicking an invasion and blockade of Taiwan. As the tension mounts, all eyes are on this high-stakes geopolitical tussle, with the world anxiously awaiting the next move.