Taiwan Receives First F-16V Fighter Jets

Taiwan received the first two Lockheed Martin F-16V fighter jets at Taitung Air Base on 2 October 2026. The aircraft are part of a 66-jet order under the United States-approved “Peace Phoenix Soaring” programme, which covers F-16V Block 70 aircraft for the Republic of China Air Force.

F-16V Block 70

The F-16V is an upgraded variant of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a multirole combat aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin. The Block 70 standard includes advanced avionics, an active electronically scanned array radar, modern mission computers, and improved weapons integration.

Taiwan’s Air Defence Modernisation

The 66 aircraft are intended for the Republic of China Air Force’s Seventh Tactical Fighter Wing. The unit operates in eastern Taiwan, where air defence assets are positioned to cover the island’s eastern approaches and the Pacific side of Taiwan.

Delivery Timeline and Procurement Details

The deal was approved by the United States in 2019 and is valued at about US$8 billion. The first delivery came after delays linked to production line relocation, supply chain disruption, and system integration work. The two jets reached Guam by 25 August 2026 before continuing to Taiwan.

Important Facts for Exams

• The F-16 was first flown in 1974 and entered service with the United States Air Force in 1978.
• The F-16V is also known as the F-16Viper in some defence references.
• An active electronically scanned array radar can track multiple targets and is used in modern fighter aircraft.
• The Republic of China Air Force is the air arm of Taiwan.

Strategic Context

The F-16V fleet is designed to operate alongside Taiwan’s existing fighter inventory, which includes older F-16 variants and other combat aircraft. The remaining aircraft in the 66-jet order are expected in later phases, with delivery timelines extending beyond the original 2026 schedule.