US concerned by Taiwan defence delay ‘concession’ to China
TAIPEI, May 9 (Reuters) – The U.S. State Department said further delays in Taiwan’s military spending were a “concession” given to China. Taipei’s defense ministry detailed the impact of projects not included in a package passed by the opposition-controlled parliament.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te had requested an additional $40 billion in defense spending to better deter China, which sees the democratically governed island as its own territory and has increased its military pressure.
But after repeated delays by opposition parties that hold a majority of seats, parliament on Friday approved only two-thirds of the money requested; all of these were for US weapons, rather than covering other domestically developed projects such as drones and missiles.
The opposition said that although it supported defense spending, it would not sign a “blank check”, that the proposals were vague in some places and could open the door to corruption.
A State Department spokesman said the United States supports Taiwan acquiring critical defense capabilities that are “commensurate with the threat it faces” and consistent with the ongoing commitment of many U.S. administrations.
“While we are encouraged by the passage of this special defense budget after an unhelpful pause, the United States notes that any further delay in funding the remaining proposed capabilities is a concession to the Chinese Communist Party,” the spokesman said. he said.
Despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms supplier and has strongly supported increased military spending. Beijing has repeatedly demanded an end to arms sales.
In a statement late Friday, Taiwan’s defense ministry said the approved spending completely excluded certain commercial purchases, which would likely create “capability gaps.”
“Our country faces a serious and ever-increasing threat environment.”
One of the plans not included is the anti-ballistic missile Chiang Kung, or “Strong Bow,” which is intended to form the backbone of Taiwan’s new “T-Dome” air defense system, the ministry added.
The statement said, “If it is not provided on time after being removed from the special budget, air defense combat effectiveness will be seriously affected.”
The ministry said the lack of approval for drone systems such as maritime attack drones would significantly delay asymmetric warfare capabilities and impact projected economic growth and employment opportunities for domestic industry.
Lai said he appreciated the approved funding that allowed for the purchase of items such as the Lockheed Martin-made HIMARS multiple launch rocket system, but said it was “only the first step.”
“Any gap will affect the integrity of the overall defense system. Any delay will increase the collective security risks borne by the people of Taiwan,” he said on Facebook.
(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by William Mallard)
