China is reportedly due to receive the first batch of 100 Russian-built R77 air-to-air missiles, which are equivalent to the US AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile. If the report is true, this would mean that Taiwan would be able to buy US-made AMRAAMs -- the offered alternative to Aegis radar destroyers. The Russian R77 will be designated R129 while in Chinese service.--Stephen V Cole