The US State Department has approved potential sales of 30 mm ammunition as well as spare parts for military vehicles and weapons worth a cumulative US$440.2 million to Taiwan, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on 29 June.
The DSCA stated that the proposed Foreign Military Sale (FMS) deals, requested by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) will comprise various unclassified 30 mm ammunition including High Explosive Incendiary-Tracer (HEI-T) rounds, multipurpose rounds, training rounds, as well as associated production, testing, and technical support services.
The 30 mm ammunition deal is expected to be worth US$332.3 million and is understood to be aimed at equipping the Taiwanese army’s CM-34 Clouded Leopard 8×8 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), which are armed with the stabilised Northrop Grumman Mk 44 Bushmaster II 30 mm dual-feed autocannon.
Alliant Techsystems Operations LLC will supply the HEI-T ammunition, while the multipurpose and training rounds will be supplied by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems.
Meanwhile, the DSCA noted that the proposed sale of spare and repair parts to Taiwan is worth US$108 million, which will provision for sustainment to the Taiwanese armed forces wheeled vehicles, weapons, combat weapon systems, as well as logistics support. However, it has yet to determine the contractors that will fulfil this package.
“The proposed sale will contribute to the sustainment of the recipient’s vehicles, small arms, combat weapon systems, and logistical support items, enhancing its ability to meet current and future threats,” the DSCA stated.
“The proposed sale will contribute to the recipient’s goal of maintaining its military capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States,” it added. “The recipient will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and support into its armed forces.”
by Jr Ng
