TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The US House of Representatives on Wednesday passed the compromise version of the National Defense Authorization Act agreed upon by both chambers, which includes NT$31.24 billion (US$1 billion) in funding for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative.
After negotiations between the Armed Services Committees of both chambers, the latest version of the bill was released on Sunday, per CNA. The House passed it on Wednesday in a 312–112 vote.
House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers said, “We need a ready, capable, and lethal fighting force because the threats our nation faces, especially those from China, are more complex and challenging than at any point in the last 40 years.” He added that the bill advances US President Donald Trump’s “Peace Through Strength Agenda.”
According to a summary released by the House Armed Services Committee, key provisions focus on countering the threat from China, removing China from defense supply chains, ensuring mission success in the Indo-Pacific, and supporting allies and partners. Measures to bolster Taiwan’s defense include fully funding the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative.
The bill also authorizes US forces to continue training Taiwan and other partner nations to resist Chinese coercion and malign influence. It further requires the Pentagon to pursue a joint program with Taiwan to deploy uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed systems.
Under the newly released text, up to NT$31.24 billion of fiscal year 2026 funding authorized for the Department of Defense may be used to advance the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative, including expanding support for medical equipment, supplies, and battlefield casualty care capabilities.
The bill mandates that the US secretary of defense seek to initiate a joint program with Taiwan by March 1, 2026, to develop and produce unmanned and counter-unmanned systems. These systems are intended for use by US and Taiwanese forces in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act.
In addition, the bill requires a plan to increase US–Taiwan Coast Guard integration and training opportunities. The plan must include projected costs for fiscal years 2026–2030, including deploying US Coast Guard mobile training teams to enhance Taiwan’s maritime security and deterrence.
The legislation also requires the Office of the Secretary of Defense to submit a Taiwan Security Assistance Roadmap outlining multi-year defense needs, along with a feasibility report on establishing a regional contingency stockpile. Until these reports are delivered, only 75% of related travel funds may be used.
The bill additionally includes the Taiwan Non-Discrimination Act, which supports Taiwan’s admission to the International Monetary Fund.
