Taiwan received the first two of 66 F-16V Block 70 fighter jets ordered in 2019, following months of delays that included software issues. The United States approved the $8 billion sale, which will bring Taiwan's F-16 fleet to more than 200.
The first two new F-16V Block 70 fighter jets arrived at Taiwan's Chihhang Air Base on Friday, after flying via Hawaii and Guam. President Lai Ching-te called the delivery an important development in strengthening Taiwan's air defence capabilities and thanked the United States for its support.
Taiwan's Defence Minister Wellington Koo said other new F-16Vs would arrive soon but gave no details. The 2019 U.S.-approved sale of 66 aircraft, valued at $8 billion, was delayed by issues including software problems.
The F-16Vs have advanced avionics, weapons and radar systems intended to counter China's air force, including its J-20 fighters. China has repeatedly urged the United States to stop arming Taiwan; Koo said China's intention to annex Taiwan by force had never changed.
