On Thursday (Jun 6), Taiwan expressed appreciation to the United States for greenlighting the sale of equipment and parts necessary for F-16 fighter jets, citing its significance in bolstering the island’s defense against China.

China asserts Taiwan as integral to its territory and recently conducted military exercises around the self-governed island shortly after the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te.

On Wednesday, the United States, a close ally of Taipei, sanctioned two military transactions with Taiwan totaling approximately US$300 million. Primarily comprising spare and repair parts for the island’s F-16 fighter jets, these sales were formally announced through statements from the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, an entity dedicated to aiding the United States’ allies and partners.

Despite the diplomatic recognition shift from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, the United States has remained Taiwan’s foremost ally and primary arms provider, drawing consistent condemnation from China.

Taiwan’s defense ministry conveyed gratitude on Thursday for the approval of the arms sale, anticipating its implementation within a month.

It said the sale would help Taiwan “meet the needs of defence operations”, and added: “Military intimidation will not contribute to regional peace and we call on the Chinese Communist Party to stop all kinds of irrational behaviours against Taiwan.”

The foreign ministry also welcomed the sale, saying in a post on X that “it showcases an unwavering commitment to our defence … Our dedication to maintaining peace & stability persists amid #China’s escalating aggression.