• The US has approved a historic $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan, its largest to date.
• This package includes advanced military systems, such as HIMARS rocket systems and drones.
• China has reacted negatively, asserting it views Taiwan as its territory.
• The arms deal reflects the US's commitment to Taiwan amid increasing military pressure from China.
• Taiwan plans to bolster its defense spending as a response to heightened regional tensions.

The United States has officially approved an arms sales package to Taiwan valued at **$11.1 billion**, marking the most extensive US military assistance provided to the island. This deal includes advanced weaponry such as HIMARS rocket systems, Javelin anti-tank missiles, and howitzers, underlining the US commitment to Taiwan's self-defense capabilities in light of increasing military pressure from China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory. According to Channel News Asia and Reuters, this package is the second under President Donald Trump's administration.

The arms sale comprises various advanced systems, including **82 HIMARS** (High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems), **420 Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS)**, and drones worth over $1 billion. These provisions serve to modernize Taiwan's military and enhance its deterrence against potential aggression from China, according to the US State Department, as detailed by Al Jazeera and BBC.

The approval of this arms package escalates existing tensions with China, which has vowed to reclaim Taiwan by force if necessary. In response to this significant military support from the US, China has issued strong condemnations, asserting that such actions undermine its sovereignty and security. The arms package was also a key topic during President Trump's recent address, where he underscored the importance of the US's role in supporting Taiwan, according to NPR and Le Monde.

As part of its defense strategy, Taiwan is increasing its defense budget significantly, reflecting the ongoing security dilemma. Recent statements from Taiwan's defense ministry acknowledge this support as vital for maintaining its self-defense infrastructure. The administration is pushing to accelerate military modernization, indicating that Taiwan’s leadership is prepared to invest heavily in its defense capabilities, as noted by both India Times and Anadolu Agency.