Can direct commercial sales fix Taiwan’s US$20 billion weapons backlog?
American defence contractors say such deals can offer greater flexibility and faster procurement amid Beijing’s mounting military pressure
US defence industry leaders are pushing for deeper commercial cooperation with Taiwan to strengthen its military capabilities, as the island seeks faster ways to bolster deterrence amid Beijing’s mounting military pressure.
Speaking at the Taiwan-US Defence Industry Forum in Taipei on Thursday, retired US General Charles Flynn and senior American executives sought to assuage concerns on the island after US President Donald Trump recently described arms sales to Taiwan as a “good negotiating chip” in dealings with Beijing.
Several American defence contractors said direct commercial sales (DCS) could give Taiwan greater flexibility in acquiring certain military capabilities and in some cases help hasten procurement.
The debate has gained urgency as Taiwan faces a backlog of more than US$20 billion in approved US weapons deliveries.
Beijing sees Taiwan as part of China to be reunited by force if necessary.