A delay in approving Taiwan's budget this year threatens T$78 billion ($2.44 billion) in weapons procurement, maintenance and training, according to a senior defence ministry official. The government has argued that increasing spending is necessary to deter China, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan. However, the opposition-dominated parliament has stalled passing the budget and a separate proposal for $40 billion in extra military spending. The delay means the ministry will not be able to execute 21% of this year's budget under the original schedule, affecting T$79 billion in spending. This includes spending on programs like the U.S.-made HIMARS and Javelin missile procurement and replenishment.