The United States announced on Friday (Nov. 29) that it had approved the possible sale of spare parts for F-16 fighter jets and radar systems to Taiwan, a transaction valued at $320 million.
The planned contract refers to equipment that is part of existing US military arsenals, indicated the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the federal agency responsible in particular for US military sales to foreign states.
“This proposed sale serves the national, economic and security interests of the United States” by supporting Taiwan’s efforts “to modernize its armed forces and maintain a credible defensive capability,” the agency said in a statement.
“Address current and future threats”
This sale will enhance Taiwan’s ability “to address current and future threats by maintaining the operational readiness of its F-16 fleet.”
China and Taiwan have coexisted since 1949 with separate governments, but Beijing claims the island as an integral part of its territory and does not rule out using force to take control of it.
The United States, although it does not diplomatically recognize Taiwan, is one of the island’s main international supporters.
The proposed sale includes spare parts for F-16 aircraft and Active Antenna Radar (AESA), according to the agency. The agreement was approved by the US State Department and the DSCA provided the required notification to Congress on Friday.
Source: BFM TV
