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US approves possible foreign military sale to Taiwan estimated at USD 750 mln

WASHINGTON, Aug 5 (KUNA) -- The US State Department has made a determination, late Wednesday, approving a "possible" Foreign Military Sale to Taiwan of "155mm M109A6 Paladin Medium Self-Propelled Howitzer System and related equipment" for an estimated cost of USD 750 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency of the Department said in a statement that it delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale.
"This proposed sale serves US national, economic and security interests by supporting the recipient's continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability," the Agency noted.
It added that the proposed sale "will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, economic and progress in the region." The Agency affirmed "the proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
"These systems will contribute to the recipient's goal of updating its military capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other allies," it said. (end) si