- The Trump administration approved an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan covering eight programs, including HIMARS, M109A7 self-propelled howitzers, and TOW and Javelin anti-armor missiles.
- The package includes 82 HIMARS launchers, 420 ATACMS missiles, more than 1,200 rocket pods, and 4,080 precision-guidance kits for 155mm artillery.
The Trump administration on December 17 approved a sweeping arms sale package to Taiwan valued at $11.1054 billion, covering eight major defense systems, including HIMARS launchers, M109A7 self-propelled howitzers, TOW and Javelin anti-armor missiles.
As reported by Liberty Times, the package includes systems designed for long-range strike, rapid cross-regional reinforcement, and battlefield survivability.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense said that among the eight approved cases, five fall under a special budget category aimed at strengthening defensive resilience and asymmetric warfare capabilities. These include the M109A7 self-propelled howitzer, follow-on purchases of the HIMARS long-range precision strike system, continued procurement of TOW missiles, an anti-armor unmanned missile system, and additional Javelin anti-armor missiles.
The ministry said these cases are part of the “Special Budget for Strengthening Defense Resilience and Asymmetric Capabilities.” Once the Legislative Yuan approves the special budget, the ministry will proceed with signing letters of offer and acceptance in accordance with established procurement procedures.
Three additional cases — the Taiwan Tactical Network (TTN) and Tactical Assault Kit (TAK), AH-1W helicopter spare parts, and maintenance of repairable Harpoon missile components — will enter the congressional notification process alongside the five major weapons programs. If no objections are raised, these cases are expected to take effect roughly one month after notification.
Liberty Times reported that while the total value of the package is substantial, the operational impact on Taiwan’s armed forces could be even more pronounced. Although the United States approved the sale of 60 M109A7 self-propelled howitzers, the package also includes 4,080 precision-guidance kits. When fitted to compatible 155mm artillery shells, these kits convert standard rounds into precision-guided munitions.
The HIMARS portion of the package represents the largest expansion. Taiwan is already implementing a previous U.S. procurement program valued at more than NT$32.5 billion, which includes 29 HIMARS launch vehicles, 84 Army Tactical Missile System missiles with a range of up to 300 kilometers, and 864 precision rockets with a range of about 70 kilometers.
Under the newly approved sale, the United States agreed to sell an additional $4.05 billion worth of HIMARS systems and munitions. This includes 82 launch vehicles, 420 ATACMS missiles, and 1,203 rocket sets. Liberty Times reported that if each M30A2 or M31A2 rocket pod carries up to six rockets, the total number of rockets could reach as many as 7,208.
Taiwan’s defense ministry said the combined acquisitions are intended to improve long-range strike options, increase firepower density, and strengthen the military’s ability to respond quickly across different operational areas. Officials emphasized that these systems are aligned with Taiwan’s shift toward mobile, survivable, and precision-focused capabilities.
The report also noted that all eight cases have entered the U.S. congressional notification process. Barring unexpected developments, the approvals would move forward without delay.