The United States has approved $2 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, including the first delivery of an advanced surface-to-air missile defense system to the self-ruled island – a move sure to anger China.
Taiwan’s presidential office thanked Washington on Saturday for giving the green light to possible arms sales. Under the island’s new president, Lai Ching-te, Taiwan has stepped up its defense measures as China has increased its military threats against the territory it claims.
Beijing took place last week War games for Taiwan for the second time since Lai took office in May.
The United States is Taiwan’s strongest unofficial ally and its laws require it to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself.
“Strengthening Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities is the foundation for maintaining regional stability,” said Taiwan’s presidential spokeswoman Karen Kuo.
The potential sales package includes three National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) and related equipment valued at up to $1.16 billion, according to the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs.
This also includes radar systems worth an estimated $828 million.
The Chinese government initially did not comment on the possible arms sales.
The NASAMS system has been combat-tested in Ukraine and will help strengthen the Taiwanese army’s air defense capabilities, Taiwan’s defense ministry said.
According to Chinese officials, China’s war exercises last week were aimed at “sealing off key ports and key areas” around Taiwan. Taiwan counted a record 153 aircraft, 14 naval ships and 12 Chinese government ships in one day.