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Taiwan

US Approves $2.2 Billion Sale of Tanks, Missiles to Taiwan

F-16s not included in arms package but new jets expected in coming weeks


The Trump administration is selling $2.2 billion worth of tanks and missiles to Taiwan but has delayed exports of new F-16s over budget shortfalls in Taipei. The main piece of the latest arms package announced Monday is the sale of 108 M1A2 Abrams frontline tanks and associated equipment, including tank rounds, machine guns, and tank-related gear.

Why Taiwan’s Presidential Election Is so Crucial

And why Americans should care about the outcome


Who the Taiwanese people elect significantly affects the island's relationship with China, and therefore very much concerns American interests, which would be seriously threatened if a pro-Chinese candidate emerges victorious.

Time for Trump to Assure Taiwan, Deter China

Tensions are rising in the Taiwan Strait, and war is not such a far-fetched prospect


President Trump can take steps now to assure Taiwan of America's commitment to the island's democracy, free of Chinese rule, and to deter China from using force to compel reunification.

Trump Administration Approves Sale of F-16s to Taiwan

Jet export reverses Obama, Bush appeasement of China

Two F-16 Fighting Falcon launch flares during an annual drill at a Air Base in Taitung City


The Trump administration has approved the sale of dozens of new F-16 jet fighters to Taiwan, the first major warplane sale to the island state in nearly 30 years. The interagency decision, to be announced in the near future, authorized the sale of up to 66 F-16V jet fighters at an estimated cost of $13 billion, according to administration officials familiar with internal discussions.

How China and Russia Could Defeat the U.S. in War


Despite maintaining military supremacy—albeit by a smaller margin than in recent decades—the U.S. could still lose wars against China and Russia, both of which have developed concepts of defeating a more powerful America in armed conflict.

U.S. Warships Pass Through Taiwan Strait Amid China Tensions

Shiyu, or Lion Islet, which is part of Kinmen county, one of Taiwan's offshore islands


TAIPEI (Reuters) - The United States sent two warships through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday in the first such operation this year, the Taiwan government said, as it increases the frequency of transits through the strategic waterway to the concern of China.

Taiwan Rebukes Ruling Party, Emboldens China-Friendly Opposition

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen announces her resignation as chairwoman of the Democratic Progressive Party after local elections in Taipei


TAIPEI (Reuters) - Voters in Taiwan have delivered a strong rebuke to the island's pro-independence ruling party in local elections, emboldening the China-friendly opposition, one of whose main figures says he will now reach out to Beijing to forge more friendly ties.

U.S. Warships Transit Taiwan Strait

Missile destroyer, cruiser conduct passage after China limits defense and military ties

The USS Curtis Wilbur is seen in the background


Two Navy warships transited the Taiwan Strait on Monday in a show of force in Pentagon efforts to push back against China's expansive claims to control waters near the communist mainland.