TSAMTO, August 24. The US State Department has approved a potential supply to Taiwan through the Taipei Representative Office for Economic and Cultural Relations in the USA (TECRO) IR target search and tracking systems for F-16 fighters, as well as related equipment.
The total cost of the order under the "Foreign Military Sales" program may amount to $ 500 million. The DoD Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the planned sale on August 23.
TECRO turned to the US leadership with a request for the possibility of selling infrared IRST (Infrared Search and Track) target search and tracking systems; support for equipment integration and testing; software supply and support; supply of spare parts, consumables and accessories; support for the repair and return of vehicles; provision of technical documentation; training of personnel and provision of equipment for training; engineering, technical and logistical support from the U.S. government and contractors, other related elements of material support and program support.
It is noted that the sale complies with the provisions of the "Law on Relations with Taiwan of 1979" (Public Law 96-8).
As stated, the implementation of this program is in line with the interests of US foreign policy and national security, as it will support the customer's efforts to modernize the armed forces and maintain a reliable defensive potential. The notification notes that the sale of the requested equipment will improve the customer's capabilities to counter existing and future threats, ensure the protection of its airspace and increase compatibility with the US Armed Forces. At the same time, the customer will not experience difficulties when adopting the systems.
Lockheed Martin was selected as the main contractor. The buyer usually requests the implementation of compensation programs, the details of which will be determined during further negotiations between the buyer and the contractor.
The notice of sale is published in accordance with the requirements of American law. The description and value of the sale reflect the highest estimates based on the initial requirements. The actual purchase price may be lower, depending on the final requirements, financial capabilities and signed purchase and sale agreements, if they are concluded.
