US Approves Nearly $700 Million NASAMS Missile Sale to Strengthen Taiwan’s Air Defense

The United States has confirmed a significant new arms sale to Taiwan, approving nearly $700 million for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), a battle-tested air defense system widely used in Ukraine. This marks Washington’s second major weapons package for Taipei in just one week, bringing the total to roughly $1 billion and reinforcing America’s long-standing commitment to Taiwan’s security.

NASAMS, developed by RTX, offers medium-range air defense capabilities and represents a major upgrade for Taiwan’s military. Until now, only Australia and Indonesia operated the system in the Indo-Pacific region. The U.S. previously announced that Taiwan would receive three NASAMS units as part of a separate $2 billion arms package. According to the Pentagon, RTX has been awarded a firm fixed-price contract, with production expected to conclude by February 2031. The funding, totaling $698,948,760, comes from fiscal year 2026 Foreign Military Sales resources allocated specifically for Taiwan.

The system’s proven performance in defending Ukrainian cities from Russian attacks has increased global demand, making the acquisition a strategic move for Taipei as it faces growing military pressure from China. Raymond Greene, America’s de facto ambassador to Taiwan, emphasized that U.S. support for Taipei remains “rock solid,” noting that the arms sale demonstrates Washington’s commitment to helping Taiwan maintain “peace through strength.”

The latest approval follows another U.S. sale issued last Thursday for fighter jet and aircraft parts worth $330 million—Washington’s first such authorization since President Donald Trump took office. These back-to-back deals come amid rising tensions across the region. Recent confrontations include Chinese coast guard incursions near disputed East China Sea islands controlled by Japan and a Chinese drone flight between Taiwan and Japan’s Yonaguni Island.

Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo urged China to avoid using force, stressing the importance of peaceful dispute resolution. As China intensifies military operations around the island in what Taipei calls “grey zone” pressure tactics, Taiwan continues to strengthen its defense capabilities, including developing indigenous submarines to protect vital sea lanes.