![CNA file photo](https://imgcdn.cna.com.tw/Eng/WebEngPhotos/800/2024/20240222/800x600_963751935306.jpg)
Taipei, Feb. 22 (CNA) The U.S. Department of State has approved the potential sale to Taiwan of advanced tactical data link system upgrade planning worth US$75 million, the Pentagon said on Wednesday.
The approval -- the 13th under the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden and the first since Taiwan's Jan. 13 elections -- comes amid heightened tensions between Taiwan and China relating to the Taiwan-controlled Kinmen islands.
In a press release, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said the package would include cross-domain solutions, high-assurance devices, GPS receivers, communications equipment, technical services and other related elements of logistics and program support.
"The proposed sale will improve [Taiwan's] ability to meet current and future threats by enhancing communications and network security, and providing infrastructure to allow the secure flow of tactical information," the DSCA said.
The DSCA said it had notified the U.S. Congress of the potential sale. The approval does not indicate that a contract for the equipment has been signed, and the principal contractors have yet to be determined.
In response, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday it had requested that Washington upgrade the Taiwanese military's command and control system and intelligence surveillance system data links, to enhance the effectiveness of the existing common operational picture and establish military interoperability.
"Taiwan and the United States will continue to consolidate our security partnership to jointly maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region," the MND said.
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) also expressed gratitude to the United States for fulfilling its security commitments to Taiwan in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances.
The arms sale shows that the Biden administration has placed great importance on Taiwan's defense needs and strengthening its defense and deterrent capabilities, MOFA added.
- Han Kuang drills cut short as troops reassigned to typhoon disaster reliefThis year's Han Kuang military exercises have been cut short as troops were mobilized to assist in disaster relief in the aftermath of Typhoon Gaemi, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday.07/25/2024 02:20 PM
- Taiwan holds anti-landing drill on Penghu on Day 3 of Han KuangTroops stationed on the offshore Penghu Islands held an anti-landing drill early Wednesday featuring the United States-made Stinger and Javelin missile defense systems as part of the ongoing Han Kuang exercises.07/24/2024 03:57 PM
- Wanan air raid drills enter 2nd day with northern Taiwan in focusThe annual Wanan air raid defense drills entered their second day Tuesday, targeting seven administrative areas in northern Taiwan.07/23/2024 07:46 PM
- Sports
Tai, Sun carry flag for Team Taiwan at Paris Olympics opening ceremony
07/27/2024 08:23 AM - Society
Schools, offices in some towns, districts to close Saturday
07/26/2024 10:51 PM - Society
Magnitude 4.6 earthquake shakes Pingtung
07/26/2024 10:30 PM - Politics
Mayor, lawmaker convicted of corruption face different outcomes
07/26/2024 10:02 PM - Society
Typhoon Gaemi causes 8 deaths, 866 injuries as of Friday night
07/26/2024 09:58 PM