Will the US drones sold to Taiwan be armed?

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US Drone Sale to Taiwan: Armament Status Uncertain Pending Approval

The United States is currently negotiating the sale of at least four sophisticated SeaGuardian surveillance drones to Taiwan, with the potential for these aircraft to be armed remaining undecided. While the US State Department has tacitly authorised the sale, a final decision on whether the drones will be exported with weapons attached requires further approval from US officials and members of Congress. The potential deal, which involves four drones along with ground stations, spares, training, and support, is estimated to be worth approximately US$600 million.
Armament Decision Awaits Higher Authority

The question of whether the SeaGuardian drones will be equipped with weapons is contingent upon approval beyond the State Department's initial authorisation. US officials must still grant specific permission for the export of armed drones, and subsequently, the deal must navigate the congressional review process. Members of Congress have the authority to block the final agreement, adding another layer of uncertainty to the armament aspect of the sale.
Precedent for Armed Drone Sales Exists

The US has previously engaged in similar transactions involving advanced drones that were initially sold unarmed. For instance, the United States sold unarmed MQ-9 Reapers, which share similarities with the SeaGuardian, to France. Subsequently, permission was granted for these drones to be armed, suggesting a potential pathway for Taiwan's drones if the initial sale is approved and further requests are made. The SeaGuardian airframe itself is designed to carry weapons, but this capability is subject to contractual allowance by the US government.
Broader Context of US-Taiwan Defence Sales

This potential drone sale occurs within a larger framework of US defence support for Taiwan, which has seen several significant transactions approved recently. Last year, the US authorised a potential sale of 108 M1A2 Abrams tanks valued at around US$2 billion, alongside anti-tank and anti-aircraft munitions. Additionally, a separate sale of 66 Lockheed Martin-made fighter jets has also advanced through the State Department's approval process. China has expressed strong opposition to these sales, denouncing increased US support for Taiwan and indicating it will sanction companies like Lockheed Martin for their involvement.

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Will the US drones sold to Taiwan be armed?

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