WASHINGTON (TVBS News) — The U.S. House Armed Services Committee agreed on Wednesday (Dec. 6) to include provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24 NDAA) for the training of Taiwan's armed forces, a significant move to enhance Taiwan's military capabilities amidst growing regional tensions.
The FY24 NDAA, with a budget of US＄876.8 billion, requires the U.S. Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive training, advisory, and capacity-building program for the Taiwanese military. This program will proceed only with the approval of the Secretary of State and after consultations with Taiwanese officials.
A key aim of the legislation is to improve the multilayered defense capabilities of Taiwan's forces, emphasizing asymmetric defense strategies and enhanced interoperability with U.S. forces.
Also, the bill mandates increased U.S.-Taiwan military cybersecurity cooperation and enhanced protection of military networks, requiring regular contact between the U.S. Secretary of Defense and Taiwanese officials.
The NDAA also includes a biannual report by the Secretary of Defense to Congress on China's military activities in Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and the South China Sea.
Another provision requires the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State to submit a classified report within 90 days of the act's enactment, assessing the integration of U.S.-provided military capabilities by Taiwan's armed forces.
Following its expected approval by Congress, the bill will be sent to the White House, where President Joe Biden is anticipated to sign it, marking a major advancement in U.S.-Taiwan defense relations.