Purchase of tanks, F-16Vs will boost Taiwan’s defense: ex-U.S. official

Focus Taiwan
Date: 2019/08/20
By: Elaine Hou and Joseph Yeh

Taipei, Aug. 20 (CNA) Taiwan's defense capabilities will be enhanced with the acquisition of M1A2

battle tanks and F-16V fighter jets from the United States, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense Wallace Gregson said Tuesday in Taipei, one day after it was confirmed that the aircraft deal had been approved.

Asked to comment on the U.S.' recent decision to sell Taiwan two separate arms packages, Gregson told reporters that given Taiwan's unique defense problem, tanks can be a valuable addition to its arsenal.

The M1A2 is "a very capable system" with "high cross-country speed — an effective weapons system," said Gregson, who is in Taipei for an international forum on issues related to regional maritime expansionism.

"Similarly, the new F16s will come with systems that will enable Taiwan to build a network defense against missile attacks, both cruise and ballistic," he said.    [FULL  STORY]