First new F-16V fighter jets to arrive in Taiwan to bolster defences against China

Taiwan is set to receive the first two of 66 new F-16V fighter jets ordered in 2019, arriving on Friday after experiencing multiple delays, according to Reuters. This delivery aims to bolster Taiwan's defense against the rising military threat posed by China, which claims the island as its own territory.

Defence Minister Wellington Koo informed reporters at Taipei parliament that additional F-16Vs would arrive soon, though he did not specify the timeline. The United States approved an $8 billion sale of the advanced fighter jets in 2019, aiming to expand Taiwan's F-16 fleet beyond 200 aircraft. However, delivery has been hampered by software issues.

The new F-16Vs are equipped with advanced avionics, weapons, and radar systems to counteract China's advanced air force, including its stealthy J-20 fighters. In May 2020, US President Donald Trump stated that a $14 billion package for Taiwan was on hold, though he approved $11 billion in December 2025. The F-16Vs have been upgraded since their completion in 2023.

The United States is legally obligated to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, although the two countries do not maintain formal diplomatic relations. China has consistently urged the US to halt arms sales to Taiwan. A US State Department spokesperson emphasized that the US remains committed to standing with Taiwan and other allies in the Indo-Pacific region to promote prosperity, security, and shared values.