The US State Department has approved the sale of drones and missiles to Taiwan for an estimated $360 million, the Defense and Security Cooperation Agency of the Pentagon announced.
The United States is legally bound to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself despite the lack of official diplomatic ties, much to Beijing’s constant ‘fury’.
China has stepped up military pressure on Taiwan, including staging military exercises around the island last month following Lai Ching-te’s inauguration as president.
US arms sales “will help improve Taiwan’s security and help maintain political stability, military balance and economic progress in the region,” the Pentagon said in separate statements, Reuters reports.
The sale includes Switchblade 300 anti-personnel and anti-armor hovering munitions and related equipment for an estimated price of $60.2 million, and ALTIUS 600M-V unmanned aerial vehicles and related equipment for an estimated price of $300 million.
Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed its appreciation, particularly for US efforts to increase arms sales to the island. Taiwan has repeatedly complained about delayed deliveries.
