US validates potential sale of air defense system worth €87 million
The defense package would include the sale of the Patriot Air Defense System as well as training and maintenance of the system, said the Pentagon. Taiwan said the deal could become effective within a month.
The United States has approved the potential sale of equipment, training and other items in a deal valued at up to $95 million (€87 million), according to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), a part of the Department of Defense.
The package would include training, planning, fielding, deployment, operation, maintenance and associated equipment for the Patriot Air Defense System.
Raytheon would be the primary contractor for the sale, said the Pentagon. There was no indication that a contract had been signed or negotiations had concluded.
Concerns over Taiwan's security
The independent island of Taiwan is claimed by China and has expressed concern over increased military pressure from Beijing to accept its rule.
The United States does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but is bound by law to protect its sovereignty.
"Taiwan will continue to demonstrate its determination to defend itself, and continue to deepen cooperative partnerships with the United States and other like-minded countries," said Taiwanese presidential office spokesperson Xavier Chang.
Taiwan's Ministry of Defense said the deal is expected to "become effective" within a month.
DSCA said the proposed sale would help sustain Taiwan's missile density and ensure readiness for air operations.
The proposed sale would be the United States' third arms package to Taiwan since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021.
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