The US State Department approved a $2 billion arms sale package for Taiwan on Friday, 25 October 2024, that includes sophisticated radar and surface-to-air missile systems, a move that might infuriate Beijing.

According to the agency in charge of the sale, the $1.16 billion deal, which is pending congressional clearance, contains 123 missiles and many anti-aircraft systems, including NASAMS.

Additionally, the agency announced the $828 million sale of radar systems to Taiwan. Supplies from the US Air Force will be used to make the equipment.

Although the United States does not formally recognize Taiwan internationally, it is a significant ally and supplier of weapons to Taipei, which has angered Beijing and has repeatedly demanded that Washington cease arming the island, which it believes is part of its territory.

The international backing for Taipei has frequently angered Beijing, which has accused Washington of interfering in its internal affairs. China keeps warships, drones, and fighter jets on the island almost every day.

In addition to increasing its rhetoric about “unification” being “inevitable,” Beijing has stated that it will never give up using force to subjugate Taiwan.

Taiwan discovered a record 153 Chinese planes in a single day earlier this month.

Beijing imposed sanctions on US defense firms in September as payback for Washington’s endorsement of the sale of military equipment to Taiwan.

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