Taiwan Approves Special Funds for Ships, Drones to Deter China

Taiwan has approved special funding to strengthen “national resilience” that includes money for more ships and drones, underscoring a push by President Lai Ching-te to better counter China’s aggression.

The NT$550 billion ($18.1 billion) approved on Thursday includes NT$150 billion for boosting the self-ruled archipelago’s defenses, the cabinet said in a statement on Thursday, listing items like new patrol vessels and drones. Funds would also go toward industries hit by US tariffs and cash handouts.