Taiwan President Lai Ching-te emphasized on the 2nd that the arrival of the first batch of 2 F-16V (blk70) fighter jets purchased from the United States is an important advancement in enhancing Taiwan’s air defense capabilities. It also demonstrates Taiwan’s determination to strengthen self-defense and maintain peace through strength. He stressed that “investment in national defense is an investment in peace.”
The Republic of China Air Force purchased a total of 66 new F-16V (blk70) fighter jets from the United States. The first batch of 2 jets (serial numbers 6727, 6728) landed at the Taitung Chihhang Air Base around noon on the 2nd. The Air Force emphasized that they will proceed with assembly, conversion, training, and step-by-step maintenance work according to plans to ensure the gradual build-up of combat capabilities. The Air Force will continue to cooperate with the U.S. project office and follow the controlled operational procedures for the return of the aircraft.
President Lai Ching-te posted on Facebook, welcoming the first batch of 2 F-16V (blk70) fighter jets to join in defending the airspace over the Taiwan Strait, safeguarding freedom and peace. This is an important step in enhancing Taiwan’s air defense capabilities and reflects Taiwan’s firm commitment to strengthening self-defense and ensuring peace through strength. He expressed gratitude to the Air Force officers and men, everyone involved in the mission from Taiwan and the United States, and the long-term support from the U.S. government in enhancing Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities and deepening Taiwan-U.S. security cooperation.
Lai Ching-te pointed out that facing the continuous intrusion of Chinese military aircraft around the Taiwan Strait, the Air Force officers and men stand guard day and night, undertaking heavy combat readiness tasks. The government has the responsibility to enhance the equipment of the Armed Forces and support the officers and men in fulfilling their mission to defend the country.
He said that these new fighter jets are equipped with advanced radar and avionics systems, which can enhance the ability to detect threats and grasp the aerial situation. By utilizing the training and maintenance experience of the existing F-16 fleet, a more complete air defense capability will be gradually formed.
“Maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is the government’s unwavering goal,” Lai Ching-te said. Strengthening national defense and increasing the cost of military aggression against Taiwan can reduce miscalculations and conflict risks, ensuring greater peace. The peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait are crucial to global security and prosperity. European and Indo-Pacific countries have recently expressed their support for peace in the Taiwan Strait, and the United States has reiterated its commitment to advancing security with Indo-Pacific partners, including Taiwan. Taiwan will fulfill its self-defense responsibilities, deepen cooperation with like-minded countries, and jointly safeguard regional stability.
Lai Ching-te stated that after the delivery of the first batch of F-16V (blk70) jets, the government will continue to monitor the progress of subsequent deliveries, implement assembly, maintenance, and training, making defense investment a solid force to defend the country. “Investment in national defense is an investment in peace.” Let’s all support the national armed forces together and protect Taiwan’s democracy and freedom, ensuring peace of mind for the people.