The United States has approved the sale of spare parts for fighter jets, radar systems, and communications equipment to Taiwan, with the total value of the deals reaching $385 million, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on Friday.
Although Washington does not have official diplomatic ties with Taipei, it remains Taiwan’s most significant ally and primary arms supplier.
The proposed sale includes parts for F-16 fighter jets and radar systems, consisting of equipment from existing U.S. military stocks, worth an estimated $320 million. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2025.
According to the DSCA, the sale is in line with U.S. national, economic, and security interests, supporting Taiwan’s efforts to modernize its military and maintain a credible defensive capability.
“This proposed sale will enhance Taiwan’s ability to meet current and future threats by ensuring the operational readiness of its fleet of F-16 aircraft,” the DSCA said in a statement.
A separate $65 million sale involves follow-on support and equipment for a tactical communications system, also approved by the U.S. State Department, with the DSCA notifying Congress of the deals on Friday.
China, which considers Taiwan a part of its territory, has long opposed U.S. arms sales to the island. The approval of these sales comes as Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te is set to begin a trip on Saturday to visit three Pacific island allies, with stopovers in Hawaii and the U.S. territory of Guam.
In response, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry expressed gratitude for the sales, stating that the equipment would help maintain the combat readiness of its F-16 fleet and strengthen its air defense. “Taiwan and the United States will continue to consolidate our security partnership,” the ministry added.
The foreign ministry also noted that this marks the 18th arms sale under President Joe Biden’s administration. Taiwan is determined to fortify its defenses against China’s growing military pressure and “grey zone harassment,” referring to actions that stop short of war but still challenge Taiwan’s security.
In recent years, China has significantly increased military activities around Taiwan, with near-daily deployments of fighter jets and naval vessels. On Saturday, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reported detecting 18 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels, and two balloons in the 24 hours leading up to 6:00 AM local time (2200 GMT Friday).
AFP
