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Proposed sale of anti-ship and anti-air missiles comes amid heightened pressure throughout the Taiwan Strait.
United States President Joe Biden plans to ask Congress to approve an estimated $1.1bn arms sale to the self-ruled island of Taiwan, together with 60 anti-ship missiles and 100 air-to-air missiles, in line with Politico.
The bundle, which continues to be in an early stage, contains 60 AGM-84L Harpoon Block II missiles for $355m, 100 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical air-to-air missiles for $85.6m, and $655.4m for a surveillance radar contract extension, three individuals aware of the matter advised the publication.
The Sidewinder missiles will probably be used to arm Taipei’s US-made F-16 fighter jets.
Taiwan, which is claimed by Beijing, is likely one of the area’s most vibrant democracies, and the US is certain by legislation to supply Taiwan with the means to defend itself.
The report of the brand new weapons comes amid heightened pressure with China, which has not dominated out the usage of power to take management of Taiwan, staging unprecedented army drills within the sea and air across the island following a go to this month by US Home Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
On Sunday, the US stated it had despatched two of its warships by way of the strait in a “freedom of navigation” train.
As soon as the Biden administration formalises the notification, the deal will want approval from the overseas affairs committees of Congress. The legislators are anticipated to approve the sale, Politico stated.
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