For the first time since Taiwan and the US ceased diplomatic relations, the United States is deploying military helicopters to Taiwan for humanitarian purposes. According to the Ministry of transportation and communications (MOTC), the US has pledged at least two CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters capable of carrying 16 tons of cargo each. In addition, the US military has sent C-130 transport aircrafts to Taiwan to help move materials for the rescue and rebuilding effort.

Transportation minister Mao Chi-guo said he'll reveal more details at a later point in time, confirming only that the US has committed the two helicopters. However, senior sources from the Ministry of Defense said that the helicopters might be arriving in Taiwan tomorrow if all goes well. The large amount of freight these helicopters can carry will help rescue efforts enormously as roads and bridges destroyed by the typhoon will take time to rebuild.

China has also offered to send helicopters to aid rescue efforts. However, Mao said Taiwan will need to evaluate its needs before replying to China's offer.