Taiwan faces the unprecedented risk of missing out on US arms deals due to a legislative deadlock, as the Defence Minister appeals for urgent budget approval before key deadlines.
Taiwan is at risk of missing out on essential arms deals with the United States for the first time due to a legislative deadlock within its government. Defence Minister Wellington Koo Li-hsiung is urging lawmakers to approve a US$40 billion emergency budget proposal before a crucial March 15 deadline. This situation highlights the vulnerability of Taiwan's defense procurements, as it relies significantly on US arms for its military capabilities.
The specific arms under discussion include M109A7 self-propelled howitzers and Javelin and Tow anti-tank missiles. If the legislative stalemate continues, the letters of offer and acceptance for these purchases are set to expire, marking a significant shift in Taiwan's procurement process. Historically, any failures in acquiring arms from the US have stemmed from hesitations or restrictions imposed by Washington rather than internal legislative issues.
Experts like Su Tzu-yun from the Institute for National Defence and Security Research express concern that failing to finalize these deals would undermine international confidence in Taiwan's commitment to its own defense. The situation draws parallels to other instances where political ineptitude has directly impacted military readiness, raising alarm among defense analysts and policymakers.
