Taipei wants to show new administration it is serious about protecting itself against China
Taiwan is considering buying a big package of US weapons, including the Aegis destroyer, to show the incoming administration of Donald Trump that it is serious about boosting its own defences against China. Several people familiar with the situation said Taipei would probably request the Lockheed Martin vessels and Northrop Grumman’s E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, an airborne radar system. It also wants more Patriot missiles and may request F-35 fighter jets, which would be controversial in Washington.
“Taiwan’s instinct to invest more in its own defence is right and in the first Trump administration, historic arms sales packages were approved,” said Heino Klinck, a former senior Pentagon official in the first Trump term. Klinck said there should be “minimal thresholds for partners facing an existential threat”. But he stressed the importance of prioritising critical capabilities, such as munitions, command and control, air and missile defence, and to enact defence reforms.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Trump wins latest: Trump makes first major appointment; three states move to 'Trump-proof' lawsVladimir Putin has described Donald Trump as a 'bullied' and 'brave man' after his monumental political comeback. Meanwhile, three states, including America's most populous, are making moves to protect liberal policies from the next administration.
Read more »
China conducting major military drills around Taiwan after island's president said he will 'resist annexation'Beijing has said the drills, which involve army, navy and rocket forces, are a 'stern warning to the separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces'.
Read more »
China Holds Major Drills Around Taiwan as ‘Warning’ to President LaiThe drills underscore China’s persistent efforts to pressure new Taiwan President Lai Ching-te.
Read more »
Why is China circling warships and fighter jets around Taiwan?All-out conflict between China and Taiwan could trigger a wider war involving the US and its allies - but why is that on the cards?
Read more »
China totally encircles Taiwan with warships, warplanes & aircraft carrier vowing ‘we are prepared for b...China totally encircles Taiwan with warships, warplanes & aircraft carrier vowing ‘we are prepared for battle’
Read more »
China War Games Near Taiwan Ignite Another Geopolitical FlashpointChina conducted military drills near Taiwan, prompting condemnation from the United States and the European Union.
Read more »