Latest US arms sale to Taiwan welcomed by MOFA

2020/12/09

The decision by the U.S. Department of State to approve the sale of a Field Information Communication System worth US$280 million requested by Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S. is deeply appreciated by the government and people, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dec. 8.
 
 It marks the 11th military sale to Taiwan made under the administration of President Donald J. Trump and the sixth this year, the MOFA said, adding the move underscores U.S. commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act and Six Assurances.
 
 The MOFA said the package reflects the importance Washington attaches to Taiwan’s defense needs. An FICS will help modernize the country’s armed forces while enhancing operational capacity, the ministry added.
 
 In an official release, the Presidential Office thanked the U.S. for its continued backing, adding the newly purchased equipment will play a key role in meeting Taiwan’s defensive and strategic needs.
 
 According to the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the latest package comprises up to 154 communications nodes, 24 communication relays and eight network management systems, all alongside an S-788 Type III shelter, as well as related equipment and support.
 
 In the face of escalating military expansion and provocation from Beijing, Taiwan’s government will continue deepening the strategic partnership with the U.S. in order to defend national security while contributing to peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, the MOFA said.

Source: Taiwan Today (https://taiwantoday.tw/index.php)