Biden Asks Congress To Approve $1.1 Billion Military Sales To Taiwan

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn arrived in Taipei last Wednesday, becoming the third US Congress person visiting Taiwan this month after Pelosi’s visit.

During her visit, she said, “I feel like Taiwan is a country”. She also shared her view (on Twitter), “when we look at Taiwan, we have to realize that this is a nation that has declared their independence, they have a founder of the country, they have a constitution, a president, a cabinet, a military. They value their independence. They share our goals of democracy, freedom and diplomacy.” The Senator looks forward to continuing to help and support Taiwan “as they push forward as an independent nation.”

Foreign media revealed some sources familiar with the situation said the Biden administration was planning to ask the Congress to approve its $1.1 billion arms sales to Taipei including anti-ship and air-to-air missiles. The report said the package consisted initially of 60 AGM-84L Harpoon block II anti-ship missiles, 100 AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder tactical air-to-air missiles, and a surveillance radar contract extension. Taipei’s U.S.-made F-16 fighters will be equipped with these advanced missiles. Neither the White House nor the State Department immediately responded to the related coverage. On the other hand, Taiwan announced that it has signed a formal contract with the U.S. to maintain and monitor its PAG-3 air defense missiles.