According to contract details published on Taiwan’s government procurement platform on Monday, the island will invest NT$24.98 billion (US$761 million) to acquire three National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) from the US.

Although the deal was initially approved in October under former US President Joe Biden, it is technically the first arms agreement finalized under President Donald Trump’s administration. Full delivery of the missile systems and ammunition is expected by the end of 2030.

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NASAMS, an advanced air defense system, integrates the MPQ-64 “Sentinel” radar, various short- and medium-range missiles, and the Link 16 military tactical data link. It provides a defensive range of 40 to 50 kilometers, enhancing protection against aerial threats.

The US remains Taiwan’s primary international supporter and arms supplier despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations. China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, has repeatedly urged Washington to cease arms sales to Taipei. However, Taiwan, governed democratically, firmly rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.

China has intensified military pressure on the island, conducting two rounds of large-scale drills this year. Security sources told that additional exercises could align with President Lai Ching-te’s upcoming Pacific tour, which includes stopovers in Hawaii and Guam, a US territory.

Taiwan’s defense ministry stated that the sale is expected to be officially enacted within a month, emphasizing that the new missile systems will enhance the operational readiness of its F-16 fighter jets and contribute to the island’s broader defense strategy.

A military source told CNA that the latest agreement is linked to a previous procurement notice regarding “parts and components for air defense missile systems” published last month.