Taiwan has requested a $1.2 billion package of US weapons, including Raytheon AIM-120C AMRAAM air-to-air missiles and Boeing RGM-84L Harpoon anti-ship missiles.
Deliveries will begin by the end of the year, subject to approval from the US Congress.
Authorisation has previously been given to supply AMRAAM to other Asian Lockheed Martin F-16 operators - including Thailand and Singapore - on the understanding that the weapons would not be handed over "until there is a reason for it," say US defence officials. It is understood that Taiwan is in a similar situation.
The USA has been cautious about releasing AMRAAM into the region because of fears of upsetting the balance of power. China is expected to receive Vympel R-77 (AA-12 Adder) missiles to equip its Sukhoi Su-27 Flankers by the end of this year, giving impetus to AMRAAM sales.
Taiwan's $150 million order covers 200 missiles to equip F-16A/Bs plus training equipment. The ship-launched Harpoon order is for 71 missiles, and is worth $240 million. The air force is expected to shortly request the air-launched AGM-84.
Meanwhile, Singapore has requested the sale of 100 AIM-120Cs in an $85 million deal.
Source: Flight International