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| US Approves USD120 Million Sale Of Parts To Help Taiwan Warships |
International Military - The United States has approved a possible sale of spare parts worth USD120 million to help Taiwan defend its warships.
According to Taiwan's Defense Ministry, this will help ensure combat readiness in the face of China's "frequent activity" near the island.
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The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement it had submitted the required certification notifying Congress following State Department approval for the sale, which was requested by Taiwan's de facto embassy in Washington.
The sale also reportedly included declassified parts and repairs for ships and ship systems, logistical technical assistance, technical and logistical support for US government representatives and contractors.
"The proposed sale will contribute to the sustainability of the receiving surface ship fleet, enhancing its ability to meet current and future threats," Taiwan's Defense Ministry said in a statement. In addition, parts will be sourced from "approved US Navy vendors and/or US Navy Stock".
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Taiwan's defense ministry said the deal was expected to enter into force within a month and thanked the US for its support in helping Taiwan protect itself.
“Given the recent frequent activity of Chinese warships in the seas and airspace around our country, ship parts that have been approved by the US for sale will help maintain the proper equipment and consumption of our naval vessels and meet the needs of combat the truth," the statement continued.
Neither side provided details on what share Taiwan would receive. Most of Taiwan's main warships are made or designed by the US.
The democratically-ruled island has complained of repeated missions by the Chinese Air Force in its air defense zone, part of what Washington sees as Beijing's efforts to pressure Taipei into accepting its sovereignty.
The Chinese Navy has also carried out increasingly regular missions near Taiwan. The US, like most countries, has no formal relations with Taiwan, but Washington is its biggest backer and is bound by law to provide means of self-defense.