The Pentagon has announced the validation of a sale of ammunition to Taiwanese fighter planes, at the risk of offending China.
By IM with AFP
© SAM YEH / AFP
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Lhe United States has validated a sale to Taiwan worth 619 million dollars of ammunition for its F-16 fighter jets. According to the Pentagon’s announcement, the sale, which may offend Beijing, includes 100 AGM-88B high-velocity anti-radar missiles (HARM), 200 AIM-120C advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAM) 8, but also launchers and practice missiles.
The sale will strengthen the « Taiwan’s ability to ensure the defense of its airspace, regional security and interoperability with the United States », the Pentagon said. It comes at a time when tensions between Washington and Beijing are at their highest, especially over Taiwan, which Communist China threatens to take by force one day, because it considers the democratic island as part of its territory.
« Actively improve self-defense abilities »
The US State Department has separately indicated that the arms sale announced by the Pentagon is in line with traditional US positions towards Beijing and Taipei. « The United States’ support for Taiwan and the steps taken by the country to strengthen its self-defense capabilities contribute to the maintenance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and in the region. »said the State Department.
The Taiwanese government hailed the first arms sale announced by the United States this year, and the ninth under President Joe Biden. « In the face of China’s continued military expansion and provocative behavior, Taiwan will continue to actively improve its self-defense capabilities. »said Taiwanese Foreign Ministry spokesman Jeff Liu.
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