Taiwan Defense Budget Stalled by Parliament

Taiwan's opposition-dominated parliament has stalled the approval of the national budget, threatening T$78 billion ($2.44 billion) in defense spending for weapons procurement, maintenance, and training. This delay affects critical programs, including the acquisition of US-made Lockheed Martin===M142 HIMARS and Javelin missiles, and training for Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets. The Lai Ching-te administration had proposed a significant increase in defense spending to deter China, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan. The United States has backed this budget increase. Officials warn that any delay in strengthening national defense capabilities could have irreversible negative effects given the ongoing military pressure from China. Taiwan is also preparing for its annual Han Kuang military drills, incorporating lessons from recent international military operations.