Defending Taiwan: What Should the U.S. Do?

Despite strong opposition from China, the Obama administration authorized a $1.83 billion arms sale to Taiwan in December. The deal marked the first U.S. arms shipment to the island in more than four years. Made up almost exclusively of defensive weapons, the military package included frigates, amphibious assault vehicles, and surface-to-air missiles, as well as anti-aircraft and anti-ship missile defense systems.

While the sale is consistent with longstanding U.S. policy on arms sales to Taiwan and bolsters Taiwan’s ability to defend itself, the question remains whether the shipment is sufficient given increasing Chinese aggression in the South and East China Seas. China’s assertive territorial claims and construction of islands in disputed waters have heightened tensions in the region. What are the security implications for Taiwan? What U.S. policy options are available to support this key ally?

On August 9, Hudson Institute hosted a conversation with Richard Fisher, Paul Giarra, and Ian Easton on regional security challenges facing Taiwan. Hudson Senior Fellow Seth Cropsey moderated the discussion.

Click here to view Rick Fisher's slide presentation.

Click here to view Ian Easton's handout.

Click here to view Paul Giarra's slide presentation.