President Joe Biden has signed the National Defense Authorization Act, affirming its pivotal role in shaping the country's military infrastructure to prevent potential conflicts. The $886 billion

defense policy package includes provisions aimed at countering Chinese military presence in the Indo-Pacific area and offering support to Taiwanese forces.

Among its key allocations, the Act earmarks $14.7 billion for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, part of a broader effort to enhance military prowess through joint exercises with regional allies and partner nations.

Emphasizing the importance of comprehensive training and capacity-building for Taiwan's military, the legislation mandates U.S. collaboration in strengthening the island's military cybersecurity endeavors.

Furthermore, the Act greenlights a plan to supply nuclear-powered submarines to Australia through the AUKUS trilateral partnership, which includes Britain.

In a statement, Biden emphasized that the Act "provides the critical authorities necessary to fortify our military against potential conflicts while extending support to the service members, their spouses, and families dedicated to this mission every day."

Having received clearance from both the Senate and the House of Representatives last week, the bill also extends aid to Ukraine in repelling the Russian invasion that commenced in February 2022. It permits the United States to continue its current program for procuring weapons and equipment from the defense industry until the conclusion of 2026.

Additionally, the legislation sanctions a 5.2% pay raise for service members and civilian workers.

Earlier this year, the United States and China reported instances of close encounters between military aircraft and vessels in the South China Sea, further heightening tensions in the region.

The longstanding rift between China and Taiwan, stemming from their separation in 1949 after a civil war, persists. Beijing considers Taiwan a rebellious province and asserts its intent to unify the island with the mainland, even through force if deemed necessary. Photo by Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, Wikimedia commons.