Taiwan is set to significantly enhance its defense capabilities as it allocates an additional T$94.3 bn ($2.97 bn) towards the procurement of weapons for the coming year. This move, aimed at strengthening its defenses against China, was announced by the government on August 24. The bolstering of Taiwan's military capabilities is in response to increasing military and political pressure from China, which considers Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, a claim that Taiwan vehemently rejects.
In a decisive step towards fortifying its national security, Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen revealed that the proposed defense budget for 2024 would amount to T$606.8 bn ($19 bn), signifying a 3.5% increase from the previous year's allocation. Approximately half of the additional T$94.3 bn ($2.97 bn) will be allocated to the acquisition of fighter jets, with the remaining funds slated for enhancing naval defenses, as confirmed by the government's statistics department following a cabinet meeting.
A crucial development in Taiwan's military modernization endeavor is the approval by the United States of a potential $500 mn sale of infrared search and track systems to Taiwan. These systems are intended for the F-16 fighter jets in Taiwan's fleet, providing them with advanced tracking capabilities. This decision was made despite China's objections to foreign arms sales to Taiwan.
Deputy Defense Minister Po Horng-huei expressed that the approved search and tracking systems are comparable to those utilized by the United States cutting-edge F-35 and F-22 fighters. He emphasized the significance of these systems in countering the new generation of Chinese jets, including the J-20 stealth fighter. By employing these advanced systems, Taiwan aims to enhance its ability to deter and respond effectively to Chinese air activities near its airspace.
China, which has consistently opposed foreign arms sales to Taiwan, has swiftly reacted to the U.S. approval of the arms deal. The Chinese Foreign Ministry urged the United States to rescind the proposed sale immediately, demonstrating China's sensitivity to any enhancement of Taiwan's military capabilities.
For Taiwan's defense budget to take effect, it requires approval from the country's parliament. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party, led by President Tsai, holds a majority in the parliament. Notably, the planned defense spending for the upcoming year is set to account for 2.5% of Taiwan's gross domestic product, underscoring the nation's commitment to fortifying its national security.
President Tsai Ing-wen has been at the forefront of Taiwan's efforts to modernize its armed forces, making them more resilient against potential threats. The ongoing modernization program includes the upgrade of its existing F-16 fighter jets to the F-16V configuration, as well as the procurement of 66 new F-16Vs equipped with advanced avionics, weaponry, and radar systems. These upgrades are tailored to effectively counter the Chinese air force, including their advanced J-20 stealth fighters.
President Tsai further shared that the unveiling of the first prototype indigenous submarine is scheduled for the upcoming month, marking a significant milestone in Taiwan's efforts to enhance its maritime capabilities.
As Taiwan solidifies its defense posture with a substantial investment in advanced weaponry and technology, the nation seeks to ensure its security and sovereignty amidst the evolving regional dynamics.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Threads pages to keep up to date on world news.
Comments (0)