TAIPEI, Taiwan — The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of drones and missiles for an estimated $360 million, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.
The United States is bound by law to provide Chinese-claimed Taiwan with the means to defend itself despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, to the constant anger of Beijing.
China has been stepping up military pressure against Taiwan, including staging war games around the island last month after the inauguration of Lai Ching-te as president.
The sale "will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region," the Pentagon agency said in separate statements on Tuesday in the U.S.
The sale includes Switchblade 300 anti-personnel and anti-armor loitering munitions and related equipment for an estimated cost of $60.2 million, and ALTIUS 600M-V drones and related equipment for an estimated cost of $300 million, the agency added. Loitering munitions are small guided missiles that can fly around a target area until they are directed to attack.
Taiwan's defense ministry expressed its thanks, especially for U.S. efforts to increase arms sales to the island. Taiwan has repeatedly complained of delayed deliveries.
"In the face of the Chinese communists' frequent military operations around Taiwan, these US-agreed-to arms sales items will have the ability to detect and strike in real time, and can respond quickly to enemy threats," it said in a statement.
Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait require goodwill from China, the ministry added.
"It is hoped that the People's Liberation Army will stop its oppressive military operations around Taiwan and jointly contribute to regional stability."
Choose the BEST answer to each of the questions below. After you finish, highlight the parentheses to reveal the hidden answers.
1. ( B ) Which country was constantly angered by the sale of weapons from the United States of America to Taiwan?
(A) Japan
(B) China
(C) Vietnam
(D) Russia
2. ( C ) Which specific governmental authority announced that the sale of weapons from the U.S. to Taiwan has been approved?
(A) Central Intelligence Agency
(B) National Security Agency
(C) Defense Security Cooperation Agency
(D) Department of Justice
3. ( A ) What type of weapon is ALTIUS 600M-V?
(A) Drone
(B) Tank
(C) Cyberweapon
(D) Destroyer
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