US approves potential $500m sale of military equipment to Taiwan

The United States government has approved a potential $500m sale of military equipment to Taiwan, a move likely to stir simmering tensions with China.

Nevertheless, in a statement (PDF) on Wednesday, the US Department of State sought to quell concerns about the proposed sale, which would include infrared search-and-track systems, munitions support and equipment for F-16 fighter jet programme.

“The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” the State Department said in its news release.