US-Taiwan Defense Cooperation: 21 of 24 Projects Delivered, 3 Delayed

Taiwan–U.S. defense cooperation has become the most critical external source of support for cross-strait relations. Since the signing of the U.S.-Taiwan Defense Cooperation Agreement in 2018, Taiwan has submitted more than 20 arms procurement requests to the United States, covering a wide range of fields from advanced fighter jets to missile systems. These requests are not only aimed at enhancing local defensive capabilities but also serve to communicate Taiwan’s firm stance on self-defense and regional security to the international community. According to the latest data recently provided by the Ministry of National Defense to the Legislative Yuan, 24 U.S. arms procurement cases are currently in execution. Of these, 21 have been completed on schedule, while only three have been delayed due to various factors.

The 21 cases progressing on schedule encompass a variety of key equipment. In addition to the already delivered F-16V fighter jets and their upgrade modules, they include Patriot air defense systems, radar and communication equipment, and various missiles and air defense missiles. The delivery of this equipment has not only elevated the operational levels of the Republic of China Air Force and Navy but also enabled Taiwan to conduct deterrence and defense more effectively when facing potential threats. Notably, much of this equipment represents the latest R&D achievements from the United States, indicating that Taiwan remains synchronized with the U.S. in terms of military technology.

However, three cases have been delayed for multiple reasons. The first is the MK48 heavyweight torpedo, primarily used by Navy submarines and surface vessels; the delay is mainly related to the U.S. Navy’s production schedule and parts supply chain issues. The second is the AGM-154C missile, an advanced air-to-ground missile, which has been delayed primarily because the U.S. requires a longer period for export reviews and security audits of the relevant parts. The third is the F-16V Block 70 fighter jet; although some units have already been delivered to Taiwan, the delivery of certain upgrade modules has been affected by internal adjustments and cost controls within the U.S. Department of Defense. Although these three delays are not substantial, they have a certain impact on the timeline of Taiwan’s overall defense deployment.

From a strategic perspective, these delays affect not only the timing of the use of individual pieces of equipment but may also shorten Taiwan’s operational coverage in maritime and aerial domains in the short term. In particular, the MK48 torpedo and the AGM-154C missile directly impact the precision strike capabilities of the Navy and the Air Force, respectively. If the delays persist for too long, they could create temporary defense blind spots during periods of heightened cross-strait tensions, thereby affecting regional security and stability. In contrast, the 21 completed equipment packages provide Taiwan with a solid defensive foundation and, to a certain extent, offset the risks brought about by the delays.

On the domestic political front, the Legislative Yuan’s review and oversight of these military procurement cases have become a significant issue regarding defense budgets and national security. In recent years, Taiwanese society has placed higher demands on the transparency and rationality of military spending, and legislators have repeatedly called on the Ministry of National Defense to strengthen coordination with the United States to ensure a smooth procurement process. These delayed cases have also become a focal point of debate among political parties on defense issues, further prompting the government to place greater emphasis on supply chain management and risk assessment of international cooperation in future military budgeting.

Looking ahead, the Taiwan government has stated that it will accelerate the pace of negotiations with the United States and seek alternative solutions where possible to ensure the timely arrival of critical equipment. The U.S. side has also indicated that it will prioritize Taiwan’s procurement needs following internal adjustments within the Department of Defense. If both sides can resolve the delay issues in the short term, Taiwan’s overall defense capabilities will be further enhanced in the coming years, providing a more robust backing for maintaining cross-strait peace and regional stability. (Source: Central News Agency)