Strengthening Taiwan's defense: US approves military aid under FMF program

US approves military aid for Taiwan under FMF program

In a significant move, the administration of US President Joe Biden has granted approval for a military transfer to Taiwan, signalling its support for the island's defense capabilities. This assistance comes under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program, typically utilized for sovereign states. The notification to Congress, as reported by Reuters, reveals the State Department's intention to allocate up to USD 80 million in FMF funds to enhance Taiwan's self-defense capabilities.

The primary objective of this military transfer is to bolster Taiwan's self-defense capabilities. The funding will be directed towards joint and combined defense capability, as well as maritime domain awareness and maritime security capabilities. These measures aim to strengthen Taiwan's ability to defend itself and contribute to regional security and stability.

Taiwan's defense ministry expressed gratitude for the aid, acknowledging the ongoing support from the United States to enhance its combat capabilities. However, they refrained from providing detailed comments on the aid. It is noteworthy that the US's provision of FMF assistance to Taiwan does not signify a change in its policy. A State Department official affirmed the notification to Congress and clarified that the decision aligns with existing US policies.

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Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program

Representative Michael McCaul, the Republican chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, welcomed the administration's decision to provide FMF assistance to Taiwan. He highlighted the significance of this aid in strengthening Taiwan's defense, safeguarding democracies in the region, and reinforcing US deterrence against an increasingly assertive Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This move not only benefits Taiwan but also contributes to regional security and bolsters the United States' national security interests.

The FMF program, administered by the State Department, is the largest military assistance account. It offers grant assistance to foreign governments, enabling them to purchase US defense equipment and receive military training through the Foreign Military Sales program. The recent allocation of FMF funds to Taiwan represents a continuation of the United States' commitment to supporting its allies and partners.

China's reaction and US-Taiwan relations

China has consistently asserted its claim over Taiwan, considering the island as part of its territory. It opposes any official exchanges between the United States and Taiwan and has raised objections to US military aid and sales to the island. Beijing's defense ministry has called for an end to what it terms "military collusion" between the United States and Taiwan. In contrast, Taiwan firmly rejects China's sovereignty claims, emphasizing that the island's future should be determined by its own people.

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The United States remains a vital arms supplier to Taiwan, underscoring the close relationship between the two. The recent announcement of a weapons aid package worth up to $345 million further reinforces this partnership. Moreover, the approval of a potential $500 million sale of infrared search and track systems for F-16 fighter jets highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance Taiwan's defense capabilities.