Delayed U.S. Weapons Raise Taiwan's Vulnerability to Invasion

Combat helicopters fly during an anti-invasion drill in Taiwan. Photo: ritchie b tongo/Shutterstock TAIPEI—Taiwan has ordered some $19 billion in American missiles, rocket launchers and other weapons to help it defend itself against threats from Beijing. The only problem: U.S. delivery on many of those orders is years away. The delays increase Taiwan's vulnerability to a Chinese invasion or blockade, say military analysts and former Taiwanese defense officials, since the island's own weapons industry remains small.