Taiwan is contemplating a substantial $15 billion military package as a demonstration to the incoming Trump administration of its commitment to self-defense.
Officials from Taipei have reportedly initiated “informal” talks with the incoming Trump team, according to a report on Monday; however, with President-elect Donald Trump yet to complete his cabinet appointments, the identity of those involved in these discussions remains unclear.
According to the report, Taiwan is considering the purchase of an Aegis-class destroyer – a system touted by defense contractor Lockheed Martin as “the most capable multi-mission combat system deployed in the world today” due to its integration of air and missile defense capabilities.
Taipei is also exploring other advanced weaponry to bolster its defense capabilities, including Northrop Grumman’s E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft, which has been hailed as a “game changer in how the Navy conducts battle management command and control.”
Digital could not immediately reach the Trump transition team for comment regarding the reported “informal” talks.
However, unnamed sources reportedly indicated that the substantial package requested by Taiwan could encompass up to 60 F-35 fighter jets, 10 decommissioned warships, and 400 Patriot missiles.
“Taiwan is contemplating a package to showcase their seriousness,” a former Trump administration official allegedly told the Financial Times. “Assuming they proceed, they will approach the U.S. national security advisor upon their appointment and present a highly aggressive package of American hardware.”
Digital could not immediately contact the Taiwanese government for comment, but according to a report by Reuters, Taipei denied any ongoing talks with the U.S. about an arms package.
“There has been a period of consolidation and discussion between Taiwan and the United States on military needs, but no new stage of discussion is currently underway,” an official stated to the outlet.
During his campaign, Trump threatened to with China, but his stance on U.S. defense priorities, particularly in the waters off the mainland of China, remains unclear.
Beijing has unequivocally stated its intention to “reunify” Taiwan with mainland China, and U.S. security experts have raised concerns that this could transpire as early as 2027.