Taiwan to Receive Major U.S. Arms Shipments in 2026: Tanks, Drones, and Small Arms

Taiwan is gearing up for a substantial influx of U.S.-made military equipment set to arrive in 2026. Amid growing geopolitical tensions, these deliveries signal a deepening of defense ties between Taipei and Washington.
Key Deliveries
According to official sources, Taiwan will receive approximately 28 M1A2 Abrams tanks, anti-tank mine layer systems, reconnaissance drones, and modernized assault rifles. These shipments are part of a significant backlog of arms purchases worth over $20 billion that have yet to be fulfilled.
In addition, Taiwan is preparing a special defense budget exceeding $23 billion to bolster both its domestic defense capabilities and additional foreign procurement.
Political Significance
This arms package follows a high-level visit to Taiwan by U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker in August 2025. The visit reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Taiwan’s security and was widely viewed as a reinforcement of the longstanding “peace through strength” policy. China sharply criticized the visit, calling it a violation of its sovereignty.
Historical Context
U.S.–Taiwan defense cooperation dates back to the 1950s. From 1950 to 1979, the U.S. provided formal defense support under a mutual defense treaty. After the U.S. switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing in 1979, the Taiwan Relations Act was enacted to maintain unofficial but robust military and diplomatic ties.
Since then, arms sales have remained a core aspect of the bilateral relationship. The Six Assurances issued in 1982 further solidified the U.S. commitment to Taiwan’s defense. To date, the U.S. has provided nearly $50 billion in defense equipment and services to Taiwan, with more than $20 billion in backlogged deliveries as of mid-2024.
Modern Enhancements
In recent years, Taiwan has made significant investments in its defense modernization, including:

Development of an indigenous submarine fleet, such as the Hai Kun-class.

Acquisition and training with M1 Abrams tanks to boost armored warfare capabilities.

Deployment of infrared search-and-track systems for its upgraded F-16V fighter jets.

Use of advanced early-warning radar systems like the PAVE PAWS to detect missile threats.

Beyond procurement, the U.S. and Taiwan collaborate on joint military training programs and security exchanges. As of 2025, over 500 U.S. military trainers are reported to be active in Taiwan.
Looking Ahead
If the scheduled deliveries remain on track, Taiwan could finalize these long-delayed arms shipments by the end of 2026. The move is widely seen as not only a necessary defense upgrade but also a strategic signal to regional powers regarding the resilience of Taiwan’s security partnership with the United States.