Taiwan’s draft defense budget for 2022 shows a record $ 16.8 billion, up 5.2% from 2021. The increase was expected as the island nation thrives economically but at the same time feels intense military pressure from China to integrate it into its own territory.
The defense budget amounts to 15.7% of the total annual state budget. These costs will be reflected in the acquisition of many new weapons systems. It is planned to purchase new fighter jets, supply new helicopters, torpedoes, smart ammunition, anti-aircraft artillery, UAV, UCAV, with great support to be given to local research and production of anti-ship missiles and long-range weapons.
As the United States guarantees Taiwan’s independence in the event of a Chinese attack, much of these weapon’s systems will come from the United States and domestic companies cooperating with the United States.
