Taiwan Receives First U.S. Abrams Tanks; Biden Authorizes $571 Million Aid Amid China Tensions

Dec 22, 2024, 03:48 AM

Taiwan has received its first batch of 38 M1A2T Abrams tanks from the United States, marking the first delivery of U.S. tanks to the island in 23 years. This shipment is part of a larger order of 122 tanks expected over the next two years. The arrival of these advanced tanks, which are considered among the world's most sophisticated, underscores the ongoing military cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan amid heightened tensions with China. In response, China has strongly opposed the U.S. military assistance to Taiwan, with the Chinese Foreign Ministry describing it as a 'serious violation' of China's sovereignty and security interests. China has urged the U.S. to stop arming Taiwan and warned that such actions are 'playing with fire.' Additionally, the U.S. has approved a $295 million arms sale to Taiwan, which includes the MIDS JTRS Variant 5 tactical data link system and MK 75-76 mm gun mounts for ships. The U.S. also announced a military aid package worth $571 million for Taiwan, authorized by President Joe Biden, aimed at enhancing its defense capabilities against potential threats from China.