US approves $2 billion weapons deal to Taiwan

US approves $2 billion weapons deal to Taiwan

The Pentagon announced on Friday that the United States has approved a potential $2 billion arms sale package to Taiwan. The package includes the delivery of an advanced air defense missile system, which has undergone battle testing in Ukraine, marking its first deployment to the island.]

Despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, Beijing continues to express anger over the United States’ legal obligation to provide Taiwan, which China claims, with the resources required for self-defense.

In a notable escalation of military activity, China has intensified its pressure on Taiwan, conducting a fresh series of war games in the vicinity of the island last week. This marks the second instance of such maneuvers since Lai Ching-te assumed the presidency of Taiwan in May.

The Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced that the latest arms sale includes $1.16 billion in missile systems, alongside radar systems valued at approximately $828 million. The Pentagon has announced that RTX Corp. (RTX.N) will serve as the principal contractor for the missile system.

The statement read, “We position the proposed sale as a means to bolster U.S. national, economic, and security interests, as it aids the recipient in its ongoing efforts to modernize its military and sustain a credible defense capability.”

“The proposed sale aims to enhance the recipient’s security while contributing to the maintenance of political stability, military balance, and economic advancement in the region.”

The sale of the missile system involves three National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS), which feature the advanced AMRAAM Extended Range surface-to-air missiles, according to the announcement.

Battle-tested in Ukraine, the NASAMS system represents a significant improvement in air defense capabilities. The United States is now exporting this technology to Taiwan in response to a rising demand for such systems.

A source within the U.S. government, speaking to Reuters on the condition of anonymity, revealed that NASAMS represents a new addition to Taiwan’s arsenal, with Australia and Indonesia being the only other nations in the region currently utilizing this system.

Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed approval of the recent announcement, highlighting the “proven” effectiveness of NASAMS in Ukraine. Officials stated that this development would enhance Taiwan’s air defense capabilities amid China’s ongoing military activities.

Taiwan’s military is enhancing its arsenal in preparation for potential aggression from China, which includes the development of indigenous submarines aimed at safeguarding crucial maritime supply routes.

China has expressed strong opposition to Lai, labeling him a “separatist,” and has consistently dismissed his numerous requests for dialogue. Lai has firmly dismissed Beijing’s assertions of sovereignty, asserting that the future of Taiwan should be determined solely by its people.

On Saturday, the Chinese government intensified its criticism of Lai, condemning remarks he made the previous day regarding a contentious frontline island, where he asserted that no “external force” could alter Taiwan’s future.

“The prospect of ‘Taiwan’s independence’ appears bleak.” China’s Taiwan Affairs Office stated in a recent announcement that the complete reunification with the motherland is the future of Taiwan.

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