The Pentagon has finalized a long-term contract with RTX for the delivery of National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems to Taiwan, with completion scheduled for February 2031. The $698,948,760 firm fixed-price agreement represents a multi-year commitment to enhancing Taiwan’s defensive capabilities against aerial threats.
The NASAMS platform, which has demonstrated effectiveness in Ukrainian combat operations against Russian forces, offers medium-range air defense solutions that Taiwan currently lacks. The acquisition includes three complete systems that were part of a broader $2 billion defense package announced last year. Taiwan will become only the third Indo-Pacific nation to operate NASAMS, joining Australia and Indonesia in deploying this sophisticated American defensive technology manufactured by RTX.
Senior American diplomatic officials in Taiwan have issued strong public statements regarding the permanence of security commitments. Speaking at a business community gathering, the de facto ambassador emphasized that American support for Taiwan is “rock solid” and will continue regardless of political changes. The official pointed to expanding defense industrial cooperation as tangible proof that commitments manifest through concrete actions supporting Taiwan’s pursuit of peace through strength.
This contract confirmation arrives within days of another significant weapons authorization worth $330 million for fighter aircraft components. Together, these two approvals total $1 billion in military equipment within a single week. The fighter parts deal marked the first such authorization since the new administration took office in January, drawing gratitude from Taipei and anger from Beijing.
The weapons sales unfold amid deteriorating regional relations involving China, Taiwan, and Japan. Recent developments include Chinese coast guard operations near disputed East China Sea islands and Chinese drone flights through sensitive airspace, prompting Japanese military responses. Taiwan’s defense leadership has urged China to abandon military coercion in resolving disputes. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan, assertions that the island’s government categorically rejects. Chinese military forces maintain almost daily operations around Taiwan in what officials characterize as “grey zone” tactics designed to exhaust defensive resources. Taiwan pursues military modernization including indigenous submarine development to protect critical maritime routes. Despite lacking formal diplomatic relations, the United States remains legally bound to provide Taiwan with necessary defensive capabilities, consistently drawing Beijing’s opposition.