Defense Minister Wellington Koo said Wednesday that Taiwan’s military acquisition priorities will center around four key areas, including building asymmetric warfare capabilities. This comes as Taiwan is reportedly preparing to purchase defense equipment worth NT$480 billion (around US$15 billion) from the United States.
The Financial Times reported that Taiwan is exploring the procurement of advanced defense systems, possibly including F-35B fighter jets and an Aegis destroyer.
Addressing the Legislature, Koo said the defense plan is tailored to Taiwan’s specific security needs and will leverage close military ties with the U.S. to secure relevant equipment and training. Koo added that the four main areas for consideration include asymmetric warfare capabilities, enhancing combat resilience, improving reserve forces, and countering gray-zone tactics.
Responding to concerns about budgetary strains, Koo confirmed that Taiwan will assess its actual defense needs alongside fiscal considerations. Koo also commented on U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s nominations for government appointments, including Congressman Michael Waltz as the National Security Advisor and Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense. Koo says any pro-Taiwan personnel appointments in the U.S. are welcomed.