TAITUNG: Taiwan received the first two of 66 newly built F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from the United States on Friday, marking the start of deliveries under a long-delayed arms programme intended to strengthen the island’s air defence capabilities. Taiwan’s defence ministry confirmed that the two single-seat aircraft arrived at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung on October 2.
The aircraft were ordered in 2019 as part of an approximately $8 billion US-approved sale. Once deliveries are completed, Taiwan’s F-16 fleet is expected to exceed 200 aircraft.
Taiwan Defence Minister Wellington Koo said more of the new fighters were expected to arrive before the end of 2026, although he did not provide a detailed delivery schedule.
The programme has faced delays linked to production and software issues. Taiwan has repeatedly raised concerns over delays affecting several US weapons orders, while Washington maintains that its policy of supporting Taiwan’s defensive capabilities remains unchanged.
The F-16V is equipped with upgraded radar, avionics and weapons systems and is intended to enhance Taiwan’s ability to respond to increasingly sophisticated military aircraft operating in the region.
The delivery comes as Taiwan continues to report regular Chinese military activity around the island. Taiwan’s defence ministry said six Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels and eight other official ships were detected around Taiwan between Thursday and Friday morning. Four of the six aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern and eastern air defence identification zones, according to the ministry.
Beijing considers Taiwan part of China and has repeatedly opposed US arms sales to Taipei. Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claim.
The United States does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan but is required under US law to provide the island with means for its self-defence. Washington remains Taiwan’s most important arms supplier.
Taiwan has already completed an upgrade programme for its existing F-16 fleet, while the newly built Block 70 aircraft will further modernise its combat aviation capabilities.
The arrival of the first two aircraft represents a significant milestone in the 66-jet procurement programme after years of delays, with additional deliveries expected as production continues.