The United States has approved a potential $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, featuring the advanced NASAMS air defense system that has proven highly effective in Ukraine. The package includes three NASAMS units, 123 AMRAAM-ER missiles, and radar systems.
This move comes against the backdrop of China’s ongoing military activities around Taiwan, which Beijing considers a breakaway province. The DSCA states that the sale will enhance Taiwan’s air defense capabilities and promote regional security cooperation with the US while maintaining the current military balance in the region.
“The proposed sale will help improve Taiwan’s capability to meet current and future threats,” the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated, highlighting the strategic importance of the deal.
NASAMS, with its 25-mile range, has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness against aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles. Its combat performance in Ukraine has been particularly noteworthy, with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reporting a 100% success rate in intercepting Russian missiles as of November 2022.
The deal now awaits Congressional approval.
Read more:
- Taiwanese expert: China’s information war on Ukraine previews Taiwan strategy
- US provides $225 mn security aid for Ukraine with Patriot and NASAMS munitions
- WSJ: Ukraine to receive Patriot and NASAMS interceptors directly from US production line in next 16 months, sources say
