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The US State Department has approved the transfer of F-16 infrared search and track systems to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in a possible foreign military sale worth US$500 million.
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The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of the possible sale to TECRO, which represents the interests of Taiwan in the United States, on 23 August.
Under the possible sale, equipment would include the IRST systems (mounted on F-16 aircraft for spotting and tracking aerial targets such as fighter aircraft), integration and test support, aircraft and munitions support, spare parts, personnel training and logistics support, but no major defence equipment. Lockheed Martin will be the principal contractor.
“This proposed sale serves US national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient’s continuing efforts to modernise its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability,” the DSCA statement said.
“The proposed sale will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region.
“The proposed sale will improve the recipient’s capability to meet current and future threats by contributing to the recipient’s abilities to defend its airspace, provide regional security, and increase interoperability with the United States through its F-16 program.
“This proposed sale is consistent with US law and policy as expressed in Public Law 96-8.”
