US Approves Possible $120Mln Arms Sale to Maintain Taiwan Warships
13:54 GMT 09.06.2022 (Updated: 12:44 GMT 19.06.2023)
© AP Photo / Wally SantanaTaiwan Navy's Perry-class frigate launches an ASROC (anti-submarine rocket) during the annual Han Kuang military exercises.
![Taiwan Navy's Perry-class frigate launches an ASROC (anti-submarine rocket) during the annual Han Kuang military exercises. Taiwan Navy's Perry-class frigate launches an ASROC (anti-submarine rocket) during the annual Han Kuang military exercises. - Sputnik International, 1920, 09.06.2022](https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/106387/29/1063872983_0:97:2787:1665_1920x0_80_0_0_8c7b8729afe01171af650da3f443483f.jpg)
© AP Photo / Wally Santana
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WASHINGTON (Sputnik) – The United States has approved a possible $120 million sale of ship spare parts and related equipment to Taiwan, the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a statement.
"The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) of Ship Spare Parts, Ship System Spare Parts, and related equipment for an estimated cost of $120 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale," the statement read.
This proposed sale is consistent with US law, and serves American national, economic, and security interests, it added. Washington also expressed confidence that the deal will help Taiwan enhance its own security.
"The proposed sale will contribute to the sustainment of the recipient’s surface vessel fleet, enhancing its ability to meet current and future threats," the statement read, adding that it will also contribute to Taiwan’s military capability and enhance interoperability with the US and other allies.
DSCA noted that the deal will not affect US defence readiness.
Taiwan has been governed separately from mainland China since the end of the civil war in 1949. Beijing considers it an inalienable part of its sovereign territory and opposes any official contact between the island and other countries, while Taipei maintains it is an autonomous state.
While the US does not officially recognise Taiwan's independence, Washington has provided the island with numerous weapon systems and supported pro-independence groups there.