Taiwan receives its first US-made F-16V fighter jets
TAITUNG: Taiwan received on Friday its first F-16V fighter jets made by the United States, as the island democracy upgrades its military capabilities to deter a potential Chinese attack.
Taiwan received its first F-16V fighter jets from the United States on Friday, marking an upgrade in its military capabilities to deter potential Chinese aggression. This marks the delivery of the first 66 of 66 jets in a US$8 billion deal approved during US President Donald Trump's first term. The arrival of the jets, manufactured by the US defense contractor Lockheed Martin, comes as Taiwan awaits approval of a separate US$14 billion arms package from Washington, which President Trump had previously suspended due to Chinese objections.
The two F-16Vs touched down at Taiwan's air force base in Taitung, located on the island's southeast coast, under clear skies. Despite initial delays, locals gathered to witness the landmark event, with some expressing hope for improved pilot allowances. Military experts praised the advanced capabilities of the F-16V, emphasizing its importance in countering China's military threat.
Taiwan's Defence Minister, Wellington Koo, confirmed that more F-16Vs would be delivered by the end of the year, though the exact number remains undisclosed. The US has been Taiwan's primary security ally and largest arms supplier, but bottlenecks have delayed the delivery of critical weapons.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
