TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) announced on Tuesday (Sept. 17) that the U.S. has approved a new arms sale to Taiwan worth US$228 million. The deal, for the "return, repair and reshipment of spare parts and related equipment," will bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities amid rising tensions, the MND added.
The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency revealed the arms sale on Monday, marking the 16th arms sale to Taiwan under U.S. President Joe Biden's administration. The agreement includes spare parts and equipment for aircraft, enhancing Taiwan's military readiness.
Taiwan's MND emphasized the importance of the sale, citing the Chinese Communist Party's routine grey zone intrusions that constrain Taiwan's training space and response time in air and maritime regions.
The ministry also expressed gratitude for the Washington's continued support under the "Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances." They noted that these frameworks are crucial for maintaining regional stability and Taiwan's self-defense capabilities.
This development underscores the ongoing strategic partnership between Taiwan and the U.S. as both nations navigate a complex geopolitical landscape. Observers will closely monitor the impact of this arms sale on regional security dynamics.