The recent approval by the U.S. Department of State of a proposed missile servicing package requested by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office is sincerely welcomed by Taiwan’s government and people, the Presidential Office said July 10.
At an estimated cost of US$620 million, the package includes logistics support and technical services for Taiwan’s Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) air defense missiles, according to the PO. The proposed sale underscores the commitment of the U.S. under the Taiwan Relations Act and Six Assurances to helping Taiwan strengthen its defensive capabilities, it added.
The government is committed to investing in homeland security while promoting reform and strengthening related R&D, the PO said, adding Taiwan remains united in its desire to contribute to the long-term peace, stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also welcomed the development, saying the sale will help maintain Taiwan’s anti-air capabilities while deterring regional threats.
According to the Ministry of National Defense, the sale is expected to take effect in a month, subject to final approval by Congress. It is the seventh military purchase agreed during the Trump administration as part of the U.S. government’s ongoing security partnership with Taiwan. (SFC-E)
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