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International relations

US sale of air-to-ground missiles to Taiwan sends China a signal

Arms boost island's capability to counter several attack scenarios, analysts say

The ROC Air Force dispatches four F-16 fighter jets. Taiwan could load SLAM-ER air-to-surface missiles onto F-16s should their sale be approved by U.S. Congress. (Photo courtesy of Office of the President, Taiwan). 

NEW YORK -- The White House's approval last week of advanced arms sales to Taiwan is a sign that the U.S. is putting muscle behind its vocal support for the island's defense against Chinese aggression.

The sales include SLAM-ER air-to-ground missiles, drones and a coastal defense missile system. According to analysts, the equipment will immediately boost Taiwan's capability to counter several Chinese attack scenarios. Reuters cited an unidentified official saying the sales are valued at around $5 billion.

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