The United States has approved a significant arms deal to Taiwan, valued at $320 million, which includes spare parts for F-16 fighter planes and radar systems. This approval was announced by the U.S. State Department on Friday, with the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) providing the official notification to Congress.
The proposed sale involves equipment from existing U.S. military stocks, aimed at enhancing Taiwan’s defense capabilities. Specifically, the deal includes “spare parts and support for F-16 aircraft” as well as “Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar spare parts and support,” as stated by the DSCA. The sale is intended to bolster Taiwan’s operational readiness and its ability to address current and future security threats.
The U.S. government has emphasized that the deal serves national, economic, and security interests by aiding Taiwan in modernizing its military forces. By maintaining the readiness of Taiwan’s fleet of F-16 fighter jets, the deal is expected to enhance Taiwan’s ability to defend itself against potential threats in the region.
Taiwan’s government, through the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S., formally requested the purchase. Deliveries of the spare parts and support equipment are expected to begin next year.
This sale comes amid increasing tensions between Taiwan and China. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and consistently opposes any international recognition of Taiwan’s sovereignty. While the United States does not officially recognize Taiwan as a separate country, it has been a steadfast supporter, providing military and diplomatic assistance to the self-ruled island.
The approval of the deal highlights the ongoing strategic partnership between the U.S. and Taiwan, as well as the U.S. commitment to ensuring Taiwan’s defense capabilities amid growing concerns over Chinese military expansion in the region.
Sources By Agencies
