First jets arrive after long wait

Taiwan received its first two F-16V Block 70 fighter jets on Friday at Taitung's Chihhang Air Base after months of delays. The aircraft flew via Hawaii and Guam, touching down at noon.

Part of a sixty-six aircraft order

In two thousand nineteen, the United States approved an eight billion dollar sale of Lockheed Martin F-16V fighter jets to Taiwan. Software problems and other issues delayed delivery of the planes.

Taiwan's air force scrambles daily

Taiwan faces a rising military threat from Beijing, which claims the democratically governed island as its own territory. Taiwan's air force has to scramble almost daily to shadow China's military.

Advanced systems to counter China

The new F-16V jets have advanced avionics, weapons and radar systems to better counter the Chinese air force, including its stealthy J-20 fighters. Washington has been unwilling to provide Taiwan its most advanced fighters such as the F-22 or F-35.

Taiwan's submarine programme also delayed

Taiwan is building eight submarines as part of an ambitious domestic weapons programme. The first boat, the Narwhal, was due in two thousand twenty-four but has been delayed. It is undergoing final tests before delivery.

“Of course, the sooner the better for all parties.”

Concerns about US commitment remain

The delivery comes amid growing concern in Taiwan about the Trump administration's commitment to arming Taipei, despite Washington saying there has been no change in policy. US officials believe a Chinese invasion before two thousand twenty-eight is increasingly unlikely.