US Approves $385 Million Arms Sale to Taiwan Amid Escalating Tensions with China
The United States has officially sanctioned the sale of spare parts for fighter jets, radar systems, and communications equipment to Taiwan, with the total value of these deals reaching $385 million, according to a statement released by a US agency on Friday. Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between Washington and Taipei, the United States continues to be Taiwan’s principal ally and the largest supplier of arms.
The proposed sale, which includes components for F-16 fighter jets and radar systems, encompasses equipment already in US military inventory and is estimated to be worth approximately $320 million. Delivery of these items is projected to begin in 2025, as stated by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). This proposed sale is said to align with U.S. national, economic, and security interests by aiding Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military and maintain a credible defense capability.
According to the DSCA, the sale will enhance Taiwan’s capacity to address current and future security threats, helping to ensure the operational readiness of its F-16 aircraft fleet. In addition, a separate contract for continued support and equipment linked to a tactical communications system is valued at $65 million. The State Department has approved these transactions, and the DSCA has communicated the necessary details to Congress.
China maintains that Taiwan, which governs itself, is part of its territory and has consistently opposed US arms sales to the island. These announcements coincide with a scheduled trip by Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, who is set to visit three Pacific island allies, making stopovers in both Hawaii and Guam.
Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed appreciation for the recent arms sales, highlighting that the equipment “will enhance the combat readiness” of the F-16 fleet and strengthen air defense capabilities. The ministry also stated, “Taiwan and the United States will continue to solidify our security partnership.”
This marks the 18th arms sale announcement under President Joe Biden’s administration to Taiwan. In light of increasing military pressure from China, Taiwan remains committed to bolstering its defenses against perceived threats and “grey zone harassment,” referring to aggressive tactics that do not amount to outright warfare.
On Saturday, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported that within a 24-hour period leading up to 6:00 am (2200 GMT Friday), 18 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels, and two balloons had been detected in the vicinity of the island.
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