2 hrs ago
First new F-16V jets arrive in Taiwan to bolster defenses
Taiwan is getting its first two new F-16V fighter jets from the United States.
The jets are part of a larger order for 66 aircraft.
They were supposed to arrive earlier, but delivery was delayed by problems including software issues.
The new planes have better computers, weapons and radar.
Taiwan says it needs stronger defenses because China’s military operates near the island frequently.
China claims Taiwan as its territory and opposes other countries selling weapons to it.
The United States says it continues to support Taiwan’s security.
The new aircraft will arrive at an air base in eastern Taiwan.
Taiwan will receive the first two of 66 new F-16V fighter jets ordered from the United States in 2019.
The aircraft are scheduled to arrive at Taitung air base on Friday, after months of delays linked partly to software problems.
The $8 billion purchase will expand Taiwan’s F-16 fleet to more than 200 aircraft.
The F-16Vs feature improved avionics, weapons and radar systems intended to counter China’s air force, including J-20 fighters.
The delivery comes amid concerns about U.S. weapons delays and the Trump administration’s commitment to arming Taiwan.
- Who
- Taiwan, the United States, China and Taiwan Defence Minister Wellington Koo are central to the report.
- What
- The first two of 66 new F-16V fighter jets ordered by Taiwan from the United States are being delivered.
- Where
- The aircraft will arrive at Taitung air base on Taiwan’s mountainous east coast.
- When
- The first two aircraft are scheduled to arrive on Friday, October 2, after months of delays.
- Why
- The jets are intended to strengthen Taiwan’s air defenses amid increased Chinese military pressure and frequent air-force scrambles.
Support for Taiwan’s defense
Opposition to arms sales
U.S. weapons deliveries
Support for Taiwan’s defense
Taiwan and the United States view the F-16Vs as a way to strengthen Taiwan’s defenses and respond to China’s military activity. The United States says it continues to stand with Taiwan and its Indo-Pacific partners.
Opposition to arms sales
China claims Taiwan as its territory and has repeatedly urged Washington to stop selling weapons to the island.
Military balance
Support for Taiwan’s defense
The new jets have advanced avionics, weapons and radar systems and are intended to help Taiwan face China’s air force, including its J-20 fighters.
Opposition to arms sales
Taiwan still does not have a direct equivalent to China’s new stealth fighters, while the United States has not agreed to provide Taiwan with its most advanced F-22 or F-35 aircraft.
Delivery timing
Support for Taiwan’s defense
The arrival of the first aircraft provides Taiwan with additional capability after months of delays.
Opposition to arms sales
Taiwan has complained about repeated delays to U.S.-ordered weapons, and concerns remain about the Trump administration’s commitment to arming Taipei.
Key facts
- Aircraft
- F-16V fighter jets
- Initial delivery
- Two aircraft
- Total order
- 66 aircraft
- Order date
- 2019
- Deal value
- $8 billion
- Expected fleet size
- More than 200 F-16s
- Delivery location
- Taitung air base, Taiwan
Quotes
Wellington Koo
Taiwan’s defence minister
“Of course we won’t only have delivered these two by year-end.”
theprint.in
US State Department spokesperson
A spokesperson for the United States Department of State
“We continue standing with friends and allies across the Indo-Pacific to advance our shared prosperity, security, and values — that includes Taiwan.”
theprint.in
Sources
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