The sale of infrared search and track systems for F-16 fighter jets as well as other equipment to Taiwan may be authorised for $500 million, according to the Pentagon on Wednesday.
According to a statement, “The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the fundamental military balance in the region.” Beijing has frequently asked that the United States, Taiwan’s main source of arms, stop providing the territory with arms.
The F-16 is manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N), according to the Pentagon.
The newest F-16V aircraft will be equipped with the new technology, according to Taiwan’s defence ministry, which would “greatly improve the effectiveness of air operations” and increase the aircraft’s capacity to track and detect long-range targets.
The ministry also expressed its gratitude to the United States for the sale, noting that China’s persistent entry of military aircraft and drones into airspace close to Taiwan poses a major threat to the island.
President Tsai Ing-wen announced on Monday that Taiwan’s military spending will increase by 3.5% annually and reach a record high in 2024. She also pledged to strengthen defences in the face of an increasing threat from China, which sees Taiwan as its own territory.
According to the Pentagon, the contract’s real financial worth will be less than the $500 million maximum potential value. Late this month, the US unveiled a $345 million weapons aid package for Taiwan.
The notification does not represent the conclusion of discussions or the execution of a contract, notwithstanding approval by the State Department.
However, Taiwan’s defence ministry stated that it anticipated the transaction to “take effect within a month”.
In order to better compete with the Chinese Air Force, especially its J-20 stealth fighters, Taiwan has ordered 66 new F-16V aircraft and is upgrading 141 F-16A/B aircraft to the F-16V type.
