The United States approved an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, one of its largest ever, including HIMARS rocket systems, long-range missiles, artillery, drones, and military software.

U.S. officials said the package supports Taiwan’s efforts to modernize its forces and maintain a credible defensive capability.

Taiwan welcomed the deal, calling it essential to strengthening deterrence and national defense.

China strongly criticized the move, urging Washington to stop “arming Taiwan” and warning against military ties that interfere in its internal affairs, Al-Jazeera has reported.

The sale comes amid heightened cross-strait tensions, as Taiwan boosts defense spending and Beijing reiterates its aim to unify the island with the mainland.