Senate Unanimously Approves PORCUPINE Act to Accelerate Defense Support for Taiwan

The United States Senate has unanimously passed the PORCUPINE Act, aimed at enhancing the speed and efficiency of U.S. defense sales and facilitating the transfer of military equipment from allied nations to Taiwan. The legislation, formally named the Providing Our Regional Companions Upgraded Protection in Nefarious Environments Act, received unanimous consent on December 11 and will now proceed to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

If approved by the House and signed by the president, the PORCUPINE Act will amend the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) to include Taiwan in a select group eligible for accelerated certification and congressional notification timelines concerning arms sales. Additionally, it will streamline licensing processes for allied countries transferring military equipment to Taiwan.

Under the new provisions, Taiwan will receive treatment on par with NATO members and close U.S. allies such as Japan, Australia, South Korea, Israel, and New Zealand — a group collectively known as "NATO Plus."

The act also mandates that the U.S. Secretary of State determine within 90 days of the bill's enactment whether an expedited decision-making framework should be established for third-party weapon transfers to Taiwan.

The Formosan Association for Public Affairs (FAPA), a Washington-based advocacy group supporting Taiwan, applauded the Senate's approval. In a statement issued Sunday, the group highlighted that the bill "removes critical bureaucratic hurdles to arming Taiwan, ensuring Taiwan maintains the capabilities necessary to deter invasion" from China.

Furthermore, the legislation establishes a mechanism to facilitate third-party transfers of U.S.-manufactured defense equipment from NATO and other "NATO Plus" partners, thereby broadening the coalition able to provide support to Taiwan.

This measure represents a significant step in strengthening Taiwan's defense posture amid ongoing regional security challenges.