U.S. approves $120 million sale to maintain Taiwanese warships -Breaking
[ad_1]
© Reuters. FILE PHOTO – Taiwanese Navy personnel pose for a photo aboard the Panshi fast fighting support ship, which was being inspected at a naval base in Kaohsiung (Taiwan), March 21 2017. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu2/2
TAIPEI (Reuters). The United States approved a $120 million purchase of parts for Taiwan to keep its warships in service. This, according to Taiwan’s defense ministry, would ensure that Taiwan is ready to face “frequent activities” from China.
In a statement, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated that it had provided the necessary certification notifying Congress of the State Department’s approval. This was required by Taiwan’s defacto embassy in Washington.
According to the seller, it covered spare parts, repair and logistics for unclassified ships and systems as well logistical assistance.
The Wednesday statement stated, “The sale proposed will contribute to sustainment the recipient’s vessel fleet,” adding that it would source parts from U.S. Navy sellers and/or stock.
The defense ministry of Taiwan said that the agreement was likely to be in effect within one month. It also expressed gratitude to the United States, which helped Taiwan to defend itself.
The statement stated, “In light of the recent activities by Chinese warships around the country’s sea and airspace, the United States has agreed that ship parts will be sold to maintain proper equipment and consumption and help with combat readiness tasks.”
The sides didn’t give any details on what Taiwan would get.
The majority of Taiwan’s warships, whether they are American-made or U.S. designed, were built.
The democratically controlled island complained that China had repeatedly deployed its air force within its air defense zone. It is believed this was part of Beijing’s efforts to press Taipei into recognizing its sovereignty.
China’s Navy has been carrying out more frequent missions in the vicinity of Taiwan.
Like most other countries, the United States has no official relationship with Taiwan. However, Washington is Taiwan’s largest backer and is legally required to give Taiwan defense mechanisms.
[ad_2]
