TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The US Senate version of the defense budget bill is pushing harder for Taiwan's participation in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC).
The US Senate Armed Services Committee on July 9 passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, sending it to the full Senate for a vote, per CNA. Compared to past versions that only “suggested” inviting Taiwan’s Navy to RIMPAC, the 2026 Senate version takes a firmer stance.
The committee approved the bill by a vote of 26 to 1 and released a 20-page summary on July 11. The NDAA is a must-pass annual bill that sets military funding levels and authorizes national defense priorities.
The bill “strongly encourages” the secretary of defense to invite Taiwan’s Navy to RIMPAC “as appropriate.” If no invitation is extended, the Pentagon must provide a formal explanation.
Held every two years, RIMPAC is the world’s largest international maritime exercise and enhances interoperability among Indo-Pacific militaries. The US Navy calls it a unique training opportunity essential for maintaining cooperation and ensuring the security of sea lanes.
In contrast, last year’s House version included a similar proposal as a non-binding “Sense of Congress” statement. Such provisions express congressional opinion but have no legal force.
The Senate bill also calls for cooperation with Taiwan on developing unmanned and counter-unmanned aerial systems. It directs the Pentagon to assess Taiwan’s critical digital infrastructure and recommend ways to strengthen it.
The NDAA also authorizes the executive branch to allocate US$1 billion (NT$29.2 billion) for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative. The scope is expanded to include combat casualty care and medical equipment.
Other Indo-Pacific provisions include a ban on reducing US troop deployments on the Korean Peninsula unless deemed in the national interest. It also requires a report detailing support for Japan’s development and deployment of counterstrike capabilities.
Once both chambers pass their respective versions, differences will be resolved through reconciliation. The final bill must then be approved again and signed by the president to become law.
