The US Department of Defense has notified Congress that it plans to sell Taiwan missiles worth 421 million US dollars, which would help boost the island's defenses against rival China.

The proposed sale will include 218 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air missiles (AMRAAM), 235 Maverick missiles, as well as spare parts and maintenance equipment, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement.

"The proposed sale will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region," the agency said.

Acquisition of AMRAAM and Maverick missiles, a move sure to irk Beijing, will help Taiwan "modernize its armed forces and enhance its defence ability to counter air and ground threats," it said.

The missiles will be used to arm Taiwan's F-16 fleet, the backbone of its air force.

Taiwan for the first time in 2000 purchased from the United States 120 AIM-120s, which have a range of 50 kilometres (31 miles) and are equipped with advanced guidance systems.

But delivery of the weaponry was delayed to 2003 after China acquired weaponry of similar capabilities -- Russian-made AA-12 missiles.

China has repeatedly protested to the US over its policy of selling weapons to Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory to be reunified by force if necessary.............

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