Taiwan receives 2 long-delayed US F-16Vs, awaits additional fighter jets
Taiwan has received the first two of 65 F-16V fighter jets ordered from the United States to bolster its defense against China. The delivery follows years of delays caused by supply chain issues and ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Why it matters
The delivery of advanced military hardware to Taiwan is a significant factor in the ongoing strategic competition between the U.S. and China.
Taiwan on Friday received the first two of 65 F-16V fighter jets ordered from the US, the island's air force said, following years of delays.
The two F-16V Block 70 jets landed at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung. There are 63 more to be delivered. The self-ruled island, which is also claimed by Beijing as part of its territory, placed an order for the F-16Vs in 2019.
Taiwan largely purchases arms from the U.S., its largest unofficial ally, to boost its defences in the face of a military threat from China. China sends fighter jets and ships toward the island almost daily. Taiwan's defence minister said on Tuesday that the island remains in continuous discussions with the US about its weapons sales.
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