The Trump administration approved an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, covering eight defense programs, including HIMARS launchers, M109A7 self-propelled howitzers, and TOW and Javelin anti-armor missiles. The package features 82 HIMARS vehicles, 420 ATACMS missiles, over 1,200 rocket pods, and 4,080 precision-guidance kits for 155mm artillery.
On December 17, the Trump administration approved a comprehensive arms sale package to Taiwan valued at $11.1054 billion, encompassing eight major defense systems, including HIMARS launchers, M109A7 self-propelled howitzers, and TOW and Javelin anti-armor missiles.
According to Liberty Times, the package includes systems aimed at enhancing long-range strike capability, rapid cross-regional reinforcement, and battlefield survivability.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense stated that five of the eight approved programs fall under a special budget designed to strengthen defensive resilience and asymmetric warfare capabilities. These include the M109A7 self-propelled howitzer, additional HIMARS long-range precision strike systems, continued procurement of TOW missiles, an anti-armor unmanned missile system, and extra Javelin anti-armor missiles.
These programs are part of the “Special Budget for Strengthening Defense Resilience and Asymmetric Capabilities.” Once approved by Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, the ministry will proceed with signing letters of offer and acceptance in line with standard procurement procedures.
The remaining three cases — the Taiwan Tactical Network (TTN) and Tactical Assault Kit (TAK), AH-1W helicopter spare parts, and maintenance for repairable Harpoon missile components — will enter the U.S. congressional notification process alongside the five major programs. If no objections are raised, these systems are expected to be finalized roughly one month after notification.
Liberty Times noted that while the total package value is significant, its operational impact could be even more substantial. The sale of 60 M109A7 self-propelled howitzers also includes 4,080 precision-guidance kits, which convert standard 155mm artillery shells into precision-guided munitions.
The HIMARS component represents the largest expansion. Taiwan is already implementing a previous U.S. program worth over NT$32.5 billion, including 29 launch vehicles, 84 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles with a range of up to 300 kilometers, and 864 precision rockets with ranges around 70 kilometers.
Under the new approval, the United States will sell an additional $4.05 billion in HIMARS systems and munitions, comprising 82 launch vehicles, 420 ATACMS missiles, and 1,203 rocket sets. Liberty Times reported that if each M30A2 or M31A2 rocket pod carries six rockets, the total could reach as many as 7,208 rockets.
Taiwan’s defense ministry said the combined acquisitions aim to enhance long-range strike capability, increase firepower density, and improve the military’s ability to respond quickly across multiple operational areas. Officials emphasized that these systems support Taiwan’s shift toward mobile, survivable, and precision-focused forces.
The report added that all eight programs have entered the U.S. congressional notification process, and barring unexpected developments, the approvals are expected to proceed without delay.
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