Admiral Warns Trump's Taiwan Arms Freeze Risks Critical US Chip Lifeline
Retired Admiral Warns Washington’s Delay of Taiwan Arms Sale Could Weaken Deterrence
WASHINGTON – In a recent briefing, former U.S. Navy rear admiral Mark Montgomery cautioned that the United States’ decision to postpone a $14 billion arms package for Taiwan may erode the country’s deterrence against a potential Chinese invasion. The retired officer, who served in the Pacific Fleet for more than 30 years, said the delay could leave Taiwan vulnerable as it approaches its 2028 presidential election.
“Washington is weakening deterrence,” Montgomery said. “China’s likely opening attack would combine cyberwarfare and economic coercion after Taiwan’s 2028 election.”
Montgomery’s remarks come amid growing concern among U.S. defense analysts that the delay in delivering advanced weaponry—including air-defense systems, missiles, and counter‑aircraft platforms—could embolden Beijing. He noted that the $14 billion package, which has been under consideration for several years, would provide Taiwan with critical capabilities to counter a large-scale Chinese military assault.
The U.S. has long maintained a policy of “strategic ambiguity,” offering military support to Taiwan while avoiding a formal commitment to defend it. The new arms deal, if approved, would have represented one of the largest U.S. sales to the island in recent history. However, congressional debates, budgetary constraints, and concerns over escalating tensions have stalled the final approval.
Montgomery highlighted that China’s military doctrine includes both conventional and asymmetric tactics, with cyberattacks and economic leverage becoming increasingly prominent. He warned that the 2028 election—when Taiwan’s government could shift in its stance toward the mainland—might provide a strategic opening for Beijing to intensify pressure.
“An attack that blends cyberwarfare with economic coercion would be especially devastating for Taiwan’s economy and its civil‑military infrastructure,” he added. “Without the latest U.S. systems, Taiwan’s ability to deter or counter such an operation would be severely impaired.”
The U.S. Department of Defense has not yet confirmed whether the package will be approved in the current fiscal year. Congressional committees are reportedly reviewing the proposal, with some lawmakers expressing support and others urging caution.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense has reiterated its commitment to self‑defense and its reliance on U.S. support. In a statement issued earlier this month, the ministry noted that it remains vigilant and has been enhancing its own defensive capabilities in the face of regional threats.
Montgomery’s comments add to a chorus of voices calling for a timely approval of the arms sale. “Deterrence is a function of timely and credible capability,” he said. “Delays weaken that credibility.”
Whether Washington will move forward with the $14 billion package before the 2028 election remains to be seen. The outcome could shape the strategic balance in the Taiwan Strait and influence the broader trajectory of U.S.–China relations.
