|
Israel lobbying for Taiwan submarine buy
HT to drudge Israel has been quietly lobbying for the launch of a U.S. project to provide advanced conventional submarines to Taiwan. The reason: a Taiwan buy could launch a conventional submarine production line in the United States that would be used by Israel to procure additional subs. "Israel really wants advanced conventional submarines but can't afford to buy them on the open market," a U.S. official said. "With a production line in the United States, Israel could purchase these vessels with U.S. military aid." The official said he expected pro-Israel lobbyists in Congress to help Taiwan in efforts to win approval for the U.S. sale of advanced conventional submarines, Middle East Newsline reported. After years of delay, Taiwan has requested eight Type-209 submarines as part of a proposed purchase of $18 billion in U.S. platforms and weaponry. Taiwan's legislature was expected to vote on the procurement project in October. In 2001, the Bush administration agreed to sell Taiwan eight diesel-electric submarines, 12 P-3C Orion anti-surface-warfare aircraft and four Kidd-class destroyers. But Tapei, amid heavy domestic opposition, failed to negotiate contracts with U.S. defense firms for the air and naval platforms. In the meantime, Taiwan's request has stirred debate in Washington. The request has been opposed by the State Department, but supported by congressional leaders. Posted by: Frank G 2004-09-30 |
| http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=44695 |