What You Need to Know: Taiwan is reportedly seeking to procure F-35 Lightning II fighters, along with other advanced American defense systems, to bolster its ability to deter a potential Chinese invasion.

-The F-35, renowned for its stealth, speed, and advanced weaponry, would significantly enhance Taiwan’s defense capabilities against the superior forces of China’s People’s Liberation Army.

-However, such a deal would likely exacerbate tensions between Beijing and Washington, potentially triggering further instability. As the Trump administration prepares to take office, the sale of F-35s to Taiwan could become a pivotal point in already strained Sino-American relations, with far-reaching implications for regional and global security.

The Taiwanese government is reportedly making another push to procure the American-made F-35 Lightning II fighter. According to the Financial Times, Taipei hopes to receive the formidable fifth-generation platform in addition to several E-2D Hawkeyes, Patriot missiles, and other retired warships.

Lockheed Martin’s Aegis Combat System could also be included in the potential deal, which uses satellites to detect and take out........

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