Washington: The United States Senate has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes authorization of up to US$1 billion in funds for Taiwan-related security cooperation in 2026.

According to Focus Taiwan, the legislation had already been approved by the U.S. House of Representatives after both chambers agreed on a compromise version of the extensive bill. This legislation addresses over US$900 billion in U.S. national defense spending and associated matters. The bipartisan act reflects an evolving security landscape and ensures the U.S. remains prepared to deter adversaries like China and Russia while reinforcing vital partnerships with allies, including Taiwan, U.S. Senator John Curtis stated.

The NDAA authorizes up to US$1 billion in funding for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative, covering areas such as medical equipment, supply capacity, and combat casualty-care capabilities. It also allows U.S. forces to continue training Taiwan and other partner countries to counter Chinese coercion and malign influence operations.

Under the NDAA, the Pentagon is required to enable fielding of uncrewed and anti-uncrewed systems capabilities with Taiwan by March 1, 2026. Systems covered by the act must comply with the Taiwan Relations Act and be usable by both U.S. and Taiwanese forces. Projected costs from 2026-2030 include deployments of U.S. Coast Guard training teams to Taiwan to strengthen maritime security, law-enforcement capacity, and deterrence.

The NDAA also incorporates the Taiwan Non-Discrimination Act, supporting Taiwan's participation in the International Monetary Fund.