A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to seek to engage appropriate officials of Taiwan in a joint program with Taiwan to enable the fielding of uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed systems capabilities.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Slotkin, Elissa [D-MI]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Nov 7, 2025
Bottom line
S. 3163 seeks to enhance U.S.-Taiwan defense cooperation by establishing a joint program for uncrewed and counter-uncrewed systems, aiming to bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities and interoperability with the U.S.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to establish a joint program with Taiwan by March 1, 2026. The program's goal is to enable the fielding of uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed systems capabilities, including co-development and co-production, for both U.S. and Taiwanese military forces, consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act. It also requires annual reports to Congress on the program's progress and related defense trade agreements through 2029.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue this bill is crucial for strengthening Taiwan's self-defense capabilities against potential aggression, particularly from China, by leveraging advanced uncrewed technologies. They contend that co-development and co-production will foster greater interoperability between U.S. and Taiwanese forces, streamline defense procurement, and enhance regional stability. Furthermore, accelerating the fielding of these systems is seen as a cost-effective and asymmetric defense strategy.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that such a joint program could be perceived by China as an escalation, potentially increasing tensions in the Taiwan Strait and undermining diplomatic efforts for peaceful resolution. Some may also raise concerns about the transfer of sensitive technology, the potential for intellectual property theft, or the financial implications and long-term commitments for the U.S. military-industrial complex.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and easy understanding of its core provisions.
Section 1(a)
Mandate for Joint U.S.-Taiwan Uncrewed Systems Program
This section requires the Secretary of Defense, working with the Secretary of State, to start a joint program with Taiwan by March 1, 2026. The program's purpose is to help both the U.S. and Taiwan military forces get and use uncrewed systems (like drones) and systems to counter them. This includes working together to develop and produce these technologies, all while following existing U.S. law regarding Taiwan.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is a direct and effective way to enhance Taiwan's asymmetric defense capabilities, making it more resilient against potential aggression. Co-development and co-production ensure tailored solutions and stronger interoperability, aligning with U.S. strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific.
Critics contend
Critics might express concern that this explicit mandate could be seen by Beijing as a provocative step, potentially undermining the "One China" policy and increasing regional instability. There could also be arguments about the risks associated with sharing advanced defense technology.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the strategic imperative to support Taiwan's defense with the diplomatic sensitivities surrounding U.S.-China relations. It also involves balancing the benefits of technology sharing with the risks of proliferation or intellectual property concerns.
Section 1(c)
Annual Reports on Joint Program and Defense Trade Agreements
This section requires the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to submit annual reports to specific Congressional committees. The first report is due 180 days after the bill becomes law, and subsequent reports are due annually through 2029. These reports must detail the progress of the joint program, including engagements, activities, and advancements in finalizing key defense trade agreements between the U.S. and Taiwan, such as agreements on reciprocal defense procurement and security of military information.