The United States has approved a $385 million arms sale to Taiwan, including spare parts for fighter jets, radar systems, and communications equipment, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on Friday.
Despite lacking official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, the U.S. remains the island’s primary ally and major arms supplier. The sale consists of parts for Taiwan’s F-16 fighter jets and radar systems, valued at an estimated $320 million. These items, drawn from existing U.S. military stocks, are expected to begin delivery in 2025.
The DSCA stated that the sale serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting Taiwan’s military modernization and ensuring its defensive capability remains credible. “This proposed sale will enhance Taiwan’s ability to meet current and future threats by maintaining the operational readiness of its F-16 fleet,” the agency said.
In addition, a $65 million deal for tactical communications system equipment and follow-on support was also approved. Both sales received the go-ahead from the U.S. State Department, with the DSCA notifying Congress of the transactions on Friday.
China, which considers Taiwan a part of its territory, has consistently opposed U.S. arms sales to the island. This latest approval comes as Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te is set to depart for a diplomatic tour of three Pacific island nations, with stopovers in Hawaii and Guam.
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry expressed gratitude for the new arms sales, noting that the items would bolster the readiness of its F-16 fleet and enhance air defense capabilities. The Ministry also emphasized that the U.S. and Taiwan would continue to strengthen their security partnership.
This marks the 18th time the Biden administration has authorized arms sales to Taiwan. In response to China’s growing military pressure, Taiwan has prioritized enhancing its defenses against what it describes as “grey zone harassment” tactics—strategic moves short of full-scale military conflict.
Recent reports from Taiwan’s Defense Ministry revealed that over a 24-hour period, 18 Chinese military aircraft and seven naval vessels were detected around Taiwan, further escalating tensions in the region.
AFP
