Up to $10 billion in spending has been authorized by US law to increase security cooperation with Taiwan. It is a component of a defense bill that must pass but delete specific contentious provisions. The National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) includes the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act (TERA).
For five years, $2 billion in annual military aid is stipulated by the law. This is a part of an interagency program that offers loans and grants to pay for US military goods, services, and training. A further $1 billion annually has been approved for Taiwan’s emergency defense aid.
The Senate and House of Representatives are anticipated to approve the bill this month. The first Taiwan-specific defense modernization program is also mentioned. It also tries to counteract Chinese information operations and influence campaigns that are hostile to the island.
This step could aggravate tensions between US-China relations
Meanwhile, in a move that could exacerbate already tense relations between the US and China, the US will extend the rotational presence of its military in Australia by deploying bomber planes and fighter fighters there, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin revealed earlier this week.
Canberra is viewed by Washington as an essential ally in the fight against China in the Indo-Pacific. According to experts, Australia can provide essential logistical support for Taiwan’s defense against any attempt by Beijing to retake the island.
Austin did not specify when the rotations would increase or how many soldiers, ships, and aircraft it would include.
He added that they have also agreed to “invite Japan to integrate into our force posture initiatives in Australia”.
In Australia’s Northern Territory, there are already frequent military interactions between the two nations, including annual training and joint operations involving tens of thousands of US Marines.
According to rumors, the US will send up to six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to an air base in northern Australia in about two months.