The U.S. State Department approved the sale of 66 F-16 fighter jets to Taiwan, a move expected to anger China.
Beijing sees Taiwan as a part of China awaiting reunification, but the island is self-ruled and a close ally of the United States.
Taiwan requested to acquire 66 of F-16C/D Block 70 fighters along with related equipment, support and logistics services according to The Defense Security Cooperation Agency press release on August 20.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement that President Donald Trump had given a go-ahead of the proposed sale after Congress was notified last week.
Taiwan wish to upgrade its air defense capabilities amid increasing Chinese military incursions into its air space.
The sale’s approval will have a key role in peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and region, especially in the wake of China’s frequent military actions in the region in recent years.
