The United States has approved two proposed foreign military sales of unmanned aerial vehicles and advanced loitering missile systems to Taiwan.
The Department of State gave the go-ahead for the Taiwanese government’s request to purchase 291 Altius 600M-V systems for $300 million and 720 Switchblade 300 all up rounds worth $60.2 million, according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
The defense articles include training, engineering, technical, maintenance and related elements of logistics and program support, the agency said. It noted that the possible government-to-government agreements adhere to U.S. laws and policies.
DSCA expects the FMS deals to boost Taiwan’s security and help the island maintain political stability, military balance and economic progress in the region. Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military forces will advance the United States’ national, economic and security interests, the agency added.
Anduril and AeroVironment are the principal contractors that meet Taipei’s requirements.
Several countries have begun acquiring affordable one-way attack drones amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the rising tension between China and Taiwan.
The expendable drones have gained popularity as the war in Ukraine showcased their effectiveness in modern combat, Breaking Defense reported.
