Can Taiwan’s new F-16s level the playing field against the PLA’s J-20 stealth fighters?

Taiwan is set to receive its first two F-16 Block 70 fighter jets from the United States, potentially bolstering the island's defense capabilities against China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) J-20 stealth fighters. The two aircraft, numbered 6727 and 6728, are part of a long-delayed deal worth NT$247.3 billion (US$7.76 billion) for 66 aircraft.

The jets, delivered by US pilots, will undergo aerial refueling and servicing en route to Taiwan's eastern Taitung County. According to Taiwanese military sources, the aircraft could arrive by Thursday, though typhoons may delay their arrival until after Sunday. The F-16 Block 70s boast improved airframes, engines, and future upgrade capabilities compared to older F-16A/B Block 20 aircraft currently in Taiwan's fleet.

Taiwan's F-16 Block 70s will be stationed at Chihhang Air Base and operated by the Seventh Tactical Fighter Wing. Analysts believe the new fighters will enhance Taiwan's ability to detect PLA stealth aircraft, such as the J-20 and J-35, due to their advanced AN/APG-83 radar and other avionics and sensor capabilities. However, experts caution that the F-16's effectiveness against the J-20 will depend on a combination of sensors, data links, electronic warfare, and air-defense systems.

Beijing regards Taiwan as part of China and would likely view the arrival of the F-16 Block 70s as a significant escalation in the island's defense capabilities.