Navy to get two Osprey class minehunters from US: report

The Osprey class vessels, capable of finding, classifying and destroying naval mines, will help Taiwan enhance its anti-blockade capabilities in case of war with former rival China, the Liberty Times reported.

When the arms deal was first announced by the United States in 2010, Beijing retaliated swiftly, suspending military exchanges and security talks with Washington.

The project, which will cost Taiwan NT$3.1 billion (US$104.73 million), has now been launched in the U.S. to reactivate the two retired minehunters, with delivery expected in the middle of this year, the Liberty Times said.

Taiwan's Navy declined to comment on the report when contacted by AFP, citing a long-standing policy of not discussing arms purchases with the media.

The sale of the two vessels is part of a US$6.4 billion arms deal that also includes Patriot missiles, Black Hawk helicopters and communications equipment for Taiwan's F-16 fleet of fighter jets.

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