China’s government has consistently objected to US military aid for Taiwan, viewing it as a breach of the One-China policy.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense announced Friday that it will deploy new US-supplied NASAMS missile defense systems by year’s end, according to Taipei News. These Norwegian-made systems will be situated in key northern locations, including Taipei’s Songshan District and New Taipei City’s Tamsui District.
NASAMS, a medium-range air defense system, can target aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles. It utilizes advanced radar and military data links to counter aerial threats. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency approved the sale of three NASAMS to Taiwan as part of a $2 billion arms package from October 2024, the 17th such sale under President Biden.
The Taiwanese Defense Ministry stated the deployment strengthens its air defenses in response to heightened Chinese military activity in the Taiwan Strait. NASAMS will augment existing systems like Tien Chien II, Tien Kung, and Patriot PAC-3 missiles.
Taiwan has also procured L-band and non-L-band electronic array radar systems to enhance detection and jamming resistance, the ministry added. These radars will offer island-wide coverage. A total of NT$24.3 billion ($737 million) has been allocated for the NASAMS and radar acquisitions.
This announcement follows ongoing tensions between Beijing and Taipei over Taiwan’s political status. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has pledged reunification, using force if necessary. Taiwan rejects these claims and asserts its sovereignty, condemning Beijing’s military exercises near the island as provocative and destabilizing.
While the US officially upholds the One-China policy, acknowledging China’s claim to Taiwan, it continues providing significant military support. In December, the US Senate passed an $895 billion defense bill containing provisions to bolster Taiwan’s military capabilities.
China has strongly condemned US actions, imposing sanctions on seven US defense companies in December 2024 and banning dual-use product sales to 28 American military suppliers this month, citing violations of the One-China principle.