The US House Passed the National Defense Authorization Act to Support Taiwan’s Participation in Military Exercises

On July 14th, the US House of Representatives passed the “National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023” with 329 votes in favor and 101 votes opposed. This act supports Taiwan’s participation in the 2024 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise.

 According to a summary of the National Defense Authorization Act released by the House, the act reaffirmed US support for Taiwan’s defense. It reiterated that the US Indo-Pacific Command has the right to conduct joint exercises with Taiwan without worrying about Communist China, inviting Taiwan to participate in RIMPAC to improve Taiwan’s military readiness and send a message to Beijing.

 Also, the act fully sponsors military exercises of Pacific allies and partners in response to Communist China, supports an assessment of Taiwan’s air defense capabilities, and provides recommendations for improvement. The act will regularly update the status of US military assistance to Taiwan and expedite the delivery process.

 The Taiwan Peace and Stability Act proposed by Ami Bera, the chair of the House’s Asia-Pacific subcommittee, requires the Biden administration to submit a report on “whole-of-government strategy” within 90 days. As part of the amendment of the National Defense Authorization Act, it strengthens the US-Taiwan partnership and enhances deterrence over Beijing’s attempts to intimidate and isolate Taiwan.