The recent decision by the US to provide military aid to Taiwan has significant implications for US-Taiwan relations and has drawn a strong response from China. The $80 million grant from American taxpayers marks a departure from the previous approach of using foreign military finance (FMF) to provide aid only to countries recognized by the United Nations. This change in policy reflects a growing concern within the US about the increasing military imbalance between Taiwan and China.
China, which views Taiwan as its territory and has long warned against foreign interference in the Taiwan issue, expressed its opposition to the US military support. The significance of this funding goes beyond the dollar amount, as it represents a shift in the US stance on Taiwan and signals a stronger commitment to supporting the island’s defense capabilities.
The US has been Taiwan’s staunchest ally since switching diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979. The strategic ambiguity approach, providing enough weapons for Taiwan to defend itself without destabilizing relations with Beijing, has been the cornerstone of US-Taiwan relations. However, the changing military balance in the Taiwan Strait, with China’s growing naval and air forces, has rendered this approach insufficient.
The $80 million grant is just the beginning, with expectations of further aid reaching up to $10 billion over the next five years. This aid will enable Taiwan to acquire much-needed weapons directly from US stocks, bypassing the lengthy approval process typically associated with arms deals. While the US State Department denies that this aid implies recognition of Taiwan, it is clear that the relationship between the US and Taiwan is being redefined.
The urgency with which the US is pushing Taiwan to re-arm highlights the growing concern within Washington about Taiwan’s ability to defend itself against a potential Chinese attack. The outdated nature of Taiwan’s army, from aging battle tanks to a lack of modern missile systems and outdated tactics and doctrine, leaves the island woefully under-prepared. The reduction in military service from one year to four months, and subsequently back to 12 months, has also affected the quality and preparedness of Taiwan’s army.
Recognizing the need for reform, Taiwan is switching to a “fortress Taiwan” strategy, focusing on ground troops, infantry, and artillery to repel a potential invasion. However, this places the responsibility for defending Taiwan back on its outdated army, which has been isolated from international military doctrine since the US cut relations in 1979.
In response to Taiwan’s vulnerability, the US is not only providing military aid but also engaging in retraining Taiwan’s army. This support aims to enhance Taiwan’s defense capabilities and enable the island to better deter China. However, it is important to note that Taiwan still cannot rely solely on its own efforts and requires international support.
The issue of Taiwan’s security is becoming increasingly interconnected with the wider regional dynamics. China’s expansionist actions in the South China Sea and East China Sea have led to closer alliances and partnerships among countries in the region, such as the US, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. These alliances are aimed at countering China’s assertiveness and ensuring regional stability.
The decision to arm Taiwan to the teeth carries significant implications for the US, Taiwan, and the broader region. It reflects a shift in US-Taiwan relations and a stronger commitment to Taiwan’s defense. China’s response underscores its opposition to foreign interference in the Taiwan issue. The evolving situation in the Taiwan Strait and the changing dynamics in the region will shape the future of US-Taiwan relations and impact the balance of power in East Asia.
