US Approves $1 Bln Missile Sale to Taiwan

The United States has authorized the sale of ground-to-air missile systems to Taiwan, valued at over $1 billion, a move likely to exacerbate tensions with Beijing.

This deal includes various air defense systems, notably the NASAMS, alongside 123 missiles, as reported by the US agency responsible for military sales.

The total cost of the missile systems is about $1.16 billion, and this sale requires congressional approval.

Additionally, a separate arms package announced recently includes radar systems priced at $828 million, which will be drawn directly from US Air Force stockpiles.

Although the United States does not officially recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state and regards the Chinese government as the sole legitimate authority, it continues to provide substantial military assistance to Taipei.

This support has drawn frequent criticism from Beijing, which accuses Washington of interfering in China's internal affairs.

China views Taiwan as an integral part of its territory and has reaffirmed its commitment to asserting sovereignty over the island, even suggesting that the use of force remains an option.