Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te emphasized the need for international cooperation in collective defense, citing the increasing pressure from China. He appealed for parliamentary support for new defense spending, particularly on drones.
Defense Spending Plans
The Taiwanese government has proposed a new package of T$210 billion for surveillance, coastal attack, and small surface drones by 2031. This move is part of the country’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities amidst growing tensions with China.
The United States, Taiwan’s most important arms supplier and international backer, has strongly supported the government’s plans to boost defense spending, especially on drones. Earlier this month, the top U.S. diplomat in Taiwan suggested that Taiwan needs a ‘hornet’s nest’ of drones to help deter conflict and provide security.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.