US Delivers Advanced F-16V Fighters to Taiwan as China Presses Territorial Claims
What Happened
Taiwan received the first two F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from the US as part of a 2019 deal for 66 aircraft worth $8 billion. The advanced fighters arrived at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung after months of delays and are expected to strengthen the island's air-defence capabilities. The delivery comes as China continues to claim Taiwan as its territory and regularly sends military aircraft and ships near the island. Taiwan says it faces growing military pressure from Beijing and relies on US arms supplies to bolster its defences.
Key Takeaways
The arrival of the F-16Vs marks a significant upgrade for Taiwan's air force and underscores continued US support for the island despite ongoing tensions with China.