Taipei: Taiwan has officially received its first of 66 long-awaited F-16C/D Block 70 fighter jets from the United States, marking a significant upgrade to the island’s air defense capabilities. The delivery ceremony took place at Lockheed Martin’s factory in Greenville, South Carolina, with Taiwan’s Deputy Minister of National Defence Po Horng-huei and Representative to the US Alexander Yui in attendance, as reported by the Taipei Times.
US-Taiwan Military Cooperation Strengthens
🇺🇸 US Representative William Timmons expressed support for Taiwan’s air defense, posting on X (formerly Twitter):
💬 “We are so proud to be the global home of the F-16 and to support Taiwan’s air defense capabilities.”
📍 The newly delivered jets will be assigned to Taiwan’s 7th Tactical Fighter Wing, responsible for defending the eastern region of the island.
Why the F-16 Block 70 Matters for Taiwan
🔹 The F-16C/D Block 70 is the latest and most advanced version of the F-16, featuring:
✔️ AN/APG-83 AESA radar (enhancing target tracking & engagement)
✔️ AN/ALQ-254(V)1 digital electronic warfare suite
✔️ Conformal fuel tanks for extended range
✔️ Upgraded mission computers, cockpit systems, and interface technology
✔️ Compatibility with AIM-120 and AIM-9 air-to-air missiles, GPS-guided bombs, and the AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon glide bombs
✈️ Strategic Importance: Taiwan’s acquisition of these jets bolsters its defense capabilities amid increasing Chinese military activity around the island.
Challenges & Future Deliveries
📅 While Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence expressed gratitude to the US government for fulfilling the deal, concerns remain over production delays affecting deliveries. Reports suggest that the first jet may lack the AN/ALQ-254(V)1 electronic warfare suite, potentially requiring a temporary retrofit with the older ALQ-184(V) system.
📌 This batch is part of a $8 billion deal approved in 2019 under the Taiwan Relations Act and Six Assurances, reinforcing US commitment to Taiwan’s self-defense against potential threats from China.
China’s Likely Response?
🇨🇳 Beijing has consistently opposed US arms sales to Taiwan, considering them a violation of its “One China” policy. Analysts predict that China may respond with:
⚠️ Increased military exercises near Taiwan
⚠️ Diplomatic protests and pressure on Washington
⚠️ Economic or trade retaliation