The United States has sanctioned a $385 million arms sale to Taiwan, which includes spare parts for F-16 fighter jets and tactical communication equipment. Announced on November 30, 2024, the deal aims to enhance Taiwan's defense capabilities amid increasing tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The package allocates $320 million for F-16 components and radar systems, while $65 million is designated for tactical communication tools. General Dynamics is identified as the primary contractor.
This arms sale continues a long-standing relationship under the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, which obligates the U.S. to provide Taiwan with defensive equipment. Over the years, this has included various military systems to ensure Taiwan's preparedness against potential threats.
Taiwan’s fleet of F-16s has been central to these transactions. In 1992, the U.S. approved a significant sale of 150 F-16A/B fighters under President George H.W. Bush. More recently, in 2019, the Trump administration sanctioned an $8 billion deal for 66 new F-16V fighter jets aimed at modernizing Taiwan’s air force.