Wed Sep 25 07:35:23 UTC 2024: ## US to Launch New Initiative to Bolster Indo-Pacific Defense Supply Chains with Allies, Including Taiwan

**Philadelphia, Sept. 24 (CNA)** – The United States will soon launch the **Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPIR)**, an initiative aimed at strengthening defense supply chains and addressing vulnerabilities in the region. This initiative, which will include at least 12 allies from the Indo-Pacific and Europe, including Taiwan, was announced by a senior U.S. defense official, Jedidiah Royal, at the U.S.-Taiwan Defense Industry Conference in Philadelphia.

According to a source who attended the event, Royal highlighted the importance of collaboration with allies to bolster the defense industrial base and fast-track the production of weapons systems. He cited examples of existing collaborations, such as joint missile production with Japan and co-production of fighter jet engines with India.

Royal also emphasized the significance of supporting Taiwan’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. He revealed that a U.S. trade mission comprised of 20 companies is currently in Taiwan exploring opportunities for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS systems.

Furthermore, Royal commended Taiwan’s record-high defense budget of US$18.8 billion passed last December and expressed hope for continued support for increased defense spending. He stated that this support is essential for the U.S. to continue assisting Taiwan and ensure its sufficient self-defense capabilities.

The inaugural meeting of PIPIR is scheduled to take place in Hawaii in two weeks. This new initiative signifies the U.S.’s commitment to strengthening partnerships and bolstering regional defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

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