Taiwan's F-16 Upgrade Again Provokes China's Ire
The timing and nature of the U.S. military deal with Taiwan reflects Washington's determination to continue military support for Taipei despite increasing Chinese pressure
November 30, 2024, 7:55 pm

Taiwan's F-16 Upgrade Again Provokes China's Ire

الصين وتايوان \ تعبيرية \ متداول

The U.S. administration approved on Friday a military package to supply Taiwan with F-16 fighter jet spare parts and advanced radar systems, valued at up to $320 million.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), responsible for organizing military deals with foreign countries, officially stated that the equipment to be supplied is part of the current U.S. military inventory.

The agency stated in its official statement that "this proposed sale serves the national, economic, and security interests of the United States" by supporting Taiwan's efforts "to modernize its armed forces and maintain a credible defensive capability."

The military package aims to enhance Taiwan's capabilities "to address current and future threats by maintaining operational readiness of its F-16 fleet," according to the official text.

Technical details of the deal include supplying spare parts for F-16 aircraft and advanced AESA radars, according to official sources.

Official approvals for the deal flowed from the U.S. State Department, while the Defense Security Cooperation Agency completed procedures for notifying Congress on Friday.

It's worth noting that the United States, despite not officially recognizing Taiwan as an independent state, continues to provide substantial military support to Taipei.

Continued U.S. military aid to Taiwan faces escalating Chinese opposition, with Beijing accusing Washington of interfering in its internal affairs.

Beijing views Taiwan as an inseparable part of its territory since its separation following the civil war in 1949, and while preferring "peaceful unification," it retains the option of using military force and conducts repeated military movements around the island.

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