Senator Schmitt Files Amendment to Address America’s Ability to Cooperate with Strategic Ally Taiwan In Space

WASHINGTON – Recently, Senator Eric Schmitt introduced the Taiwan and America Space Assistance (TASA) Act as an amendment to this year’s FAA Reauthorization bill, to further build cooperation with a strategic ally in the Indo-Pacific, Taiwan, and counter the threat of China in space:

“Cooperation in space with a strategic partner such as Taiwan is undoubtedly a net-positive for the United States. The Taiwan and America Space Assistance Act expands our cooperation with a vital ally and allows for advancements and research in space with Taiwan’s growing space program. Empowering our allies through partnerships such as this ensures America remains the global leader in space and puts us in a better position in the new space race with China,” said Senator Eric Schmitt.

BACKGROUND:

Specifically, the TASA Act would:

• Allow for extended cooperation between the Taiwan Space Agency and NASA
• Allow for extended cooperation between the Taiwan Space Agency and NOAA
• Provide an avenue for the voluntary exchange of personnel from NASA and NOAA to the Taiwan Space Agency to further advance Taiwan’s space capabilities. 
• Extend cooperation in areas of satellite program development, space exploration, as well as atmospheric and weather programs.