The United States has approved the sale of spare parts for fighter jets, radar systems, and communications equipment to Taiwan, with the deals valued at $385 million, according to a US agency on Friday.
Although Washington does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taipei, it remains the island’s primary ally and largest arms supplier.
The proposed sale includes F-16 and radar system parts from existing US military stocks, totaling approximately $320 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that deliveries are expected to begin in 2025.
The DSCA emphasized that this sale aligns with US national, economic, and security interests by supporting Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military and maintain a credible defense capability.
“The proposed sale will improve the recipient’s ability to meet current and future threats by maintaining the operational readiness of the recipient’s fleet of F-16 aircraft.”
A separate sale involving follow-on support and equipment for a tactical communications system was worth $65 million, the DSCA said.
The deals were approved by the State Department, with the DSCA providing the required notification to Congress on Friday.
China maintains that self-ruled Taiwan is part of its territory and has consistently opposed US arms sales to the island.
The sales were announced as Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te prepared to depart on Saturday for a visit to three Pacific island allies, with planned stopovers in Hawaii and the US territory of Guam.
Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed its “gratitude” for the latest arms deal on Saturday.
The ministry stated that the equipment “will help maintain the combat readiness of the Air Force’s F-16 aircraft and strengthen our air defense.”
“Taiwan and the United States will continue to strengthen our security partnership,” the ministry added.
Taiwan’s foreign ministry noted that this marks the 18th arms sale announcement to the island under President Joe Biden’s administration.
Taiwan emphasized its resolve to enhance its defenses in response to China’s military pressure and “grey zone harassment,” referring to tactics that stop short of actual warfare.
In recent years, China has increased military pressure on Taiwan by deploying fighter jets and vessels almost daily throughout the island.
Taiwan’s defense ministry reported on Saturday that during the 24 hours leading up to 6:00 am (2200 GMT Friday), 18 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels, and two balloons were spotted.
