The United States has approved a potential 619 million dollar sale of weapons to Taiwan to help boost the island’s defence capability.
According to Taiwan’s foreign ministry, this is the Biden administration’s ninth arms sale to Taiwan, fulfilling its promise to normalise a policy of selling military equipment and services to Taiwan.
Because of the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, the United States is legally obligated to support Taiwan’s defence capabilities.
The deal, according to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), includes missiles and equipment to be used with F-16 fighter jets, such as anti-radiation missiles, air-to-air missiles, and launchers.
“The proposed sale will contribute to the recipient’s capability to provide for airspace defence, regional security, and interoperability with the United States,” according to the US DSCA.
It said the deal would help improve Taipei’s security and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance and progress in the region.
In Taipei, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) expressed gratitude for the approval, adding that the deal is expected to take effect one month after U.S. Congress is notified.
MND said the deal would further help Taiwan’s Air Force strengthen its capability to defend the island’s air space in face of frequent Chinese air force incursions.
The deal is likely to draw ire from China, as it considers self-ruled Taiwan part of its territory, in spite of the Island having an independent government since 1949.
MND on Thursday reported a second day of large-scale Chinese air force incursions nearby.
Over the prior 48 hours at least 40 Chinese fighter jets were detected in Taiwan’s airspace, it said. (dpa/NAN)