Faced with rising tensions with China, Taiwan reinforces its stockpile of missiles

The U.S. State Department approved the possible sale to Taiwan of Harpoon anti-ship missiles and AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II short-range air-to-air missiles.

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According to the press release issued by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the sale of 60 AGM-84L-1 Harpoon Block II anti-ship missiles was approved for US$335 million.

Included within the package offered are four ATM-84L-1 Harpoon Block II ATM-84L-1 test missiles along with containers; spare and repair parts; support and test equipment; publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training equipment; technical assistance from the U.S. Government and contractor representatives; logistics and engineering support services; and other logistics support related items.

The other approved ammunition sale is for 100 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder missiles and four other AIM-9X Block II tactical guidance units, along with the ubiquitous provision of spare parts, technical documentation and logistical support, such as training and implementation support from the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF). This armament package is valued at $85.6 million.

There is a third approved contract for logistical support for the Surveillance Radar Program (SRP) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $665.4 million. This includes program management; minor modifications and upgrades; spares and repair/refurbishment parts; publications and technical documentation; and logistical, technical and engineering support services.

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The three possible Foreign Military Sales (FMS) sales are made to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States, which is the body in charge of the official representation of the island state in the U.S., since the U.S. has not yet recognized the Republic of China as an independent state.