Taiwan announces arrival of new missile defence systems from the US by year end
Taiwan's New Defense Contracts with the US
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) has announced three new weapons procurement contracts with the United States, with one set to be delivered by the end of 2025. These contracts include the Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS), an L-band electronic array radar, and a non-L-band electronic array radar.
Strengthening Air Defense
The MND highlighted the importance of these systems due to frequent military activities by the Chinese Communist Party in the Taiwan Strait. NASAMS, which have been effective in Ukraine, offer automated detection, distributed firepower, and a command and control component. The new radar systems will enhance detection rates and resist jamming.
Deployment Plans
NASAMS will be deployed in Greater Taipei, specifically in Taipei's Songshan District and New Taipei's Tamsui District, to protect the capital. The radar systems will be distributed across the country.
Financial Details
The US government announced the agreements, totaling USD 1.988 billion, marking the 17th arms sale to Taiwan under President Joe Biden. The NASAMS contract is valued at New Taiwan Dollar 10.31 billion (USD 312.7 million) and will run until 2034. The L-band radar will cost New Taiwan Dollar 6.42 billion, and the non-L model will cost New Taiwan Dollar 7.61 billion, both expiring in 2030.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan
Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, near China. It has its own government and is known for its technology and manufacturing industries.
NASAMS
NASAMS stands for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System. It is a defense system used to protect a country from enemy aircraft and missiles.
Radar Systems
Radar systems are used to detect and track objects like airplanes and missiles. They help in identifying potential threats from a distance.
Chinese military activities
This refers to actions taken by China's military forces, which sometimes include exercises or movements near Taiwan. These activities can cause concern for Taiwan's security.
Greater Taipei
Greater Taipei is the largest metropolitan area in Taiwan, which includes the capital city, Taipei, and its surrounding areas.
USD 1.988 billion
USD 1.988 billion is the total amount of money, in US dollars, that Taiwan is spending on these defense contracts. It is a very large sum of money.
President Biden
President Biden is the current President of the United States. He has been involved in approving arms sales to Taiwan.
New Taiwan Dollar
New Taiwan Dollar is the currency used in Taiwan. It is the money people use to buy things in Taiwan.
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