Taiwan has officially received the first pair of F-16V fighter jets manufactured by the American firm Lockheed Martin. These aircraft arrived at an air force installation in Taitung following a transit that included stops in Hawaii and Guam. The delivery represents a segment of a broader eight-billion-dollar procurement agreement for 66 jets, which was authorized during the initial presidential term of Donald Trump. This military enhancement is intended to bolster Taiwan's defensive posture amid ongoing regional tensions and threats from Beijing regarding the island's sovereignty. While these jets are now in service, Taiwan continues to seek authorization for an additional fourteen-billion-dollar weapons package that had previously faced delays due to diplomatic pressure from China. The arrival of these advanced fighters marks a significant step in the island's efforts to modernize its aerial defense capabilities.
Source : Hong Kong Free Press
Photo : Hong Kong Free Press
