Taiwan has received the first two F-16V (Block 70) fighter jets from the United States on Friday, October 2, 2026, marking a significant upgrade to its air defense capabilities amid ongoing tensions with China. The jets, part of a 66-aircraft deal, landed at Chihaung Air Base in Taitung, on Taiwan’s eastern coast, after months of delay.
Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te expressed gratitude for US support, stating on Facebook that the arrival was a crucial step in strengthening Taiwan’s air defense. Taiwan’s Defence Minister Wellington Koo informed parliament in Taipei that more F-16V jets are expected to arrive soon. The delivery comes as China continues to claim Taiwan as its own territory and has not wavered in its intent to take the island by force, according to Minister Koo.
Strengthening Air Defense
The United States approved the sale of F-16V jets worth USD 8 billion to Taiwan in 2019. Delivery was delayed due to technical software issues. These new F-16V jets are equipped with advanced avionics, weapons, and radar systems, designed to counter China’s military capabilities, including its J-20 stealth fighters. This is the first batch of new fighter jets Taiwan has received from abroad since 1997. Taiwan had previously ordered 150 F-16 fighter jets from the US in 1993, with deliveries completed by 2001.
In addition to the F-16V jets, Taiwan is advancing its domestic arms program, which includes building eight submarines. Its first domestically built submarine, named “Narwhal,” completed its 16th sea trial on September 23, 2026. Military expert Chi Tung-yun stated that if all tests are completed, the submarine could be handed over to the navy in October.
Ongoing Tensions and Future Steps
The arrival of the jets coincided with a significant increase in Chinese military activity. On the same day, six Chinese air force planes crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. In 2025, Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft made a record 3,764 incursions into Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), a 22.4 percent increase from 2024.
A US State Department spokesperson reaffirmed America’s commitment to standing with allies in the Indo-Pacific region, including Taiwan. Officials expect the remaining F-16V jets to arrive soon, with the delivery schedule reportedly back on track. Taiwan will need to complete crew training and squadron integration for the new jets. After the “Narwhal” submarine’s trials are complete, it is expected to be handed over to the navy in October 2026 for tactical evaluation.
Analysts note that while the F-16V jets feature advanced systems, their overall advantage against China’s J-20 stealth fighters remains unclear. The specific details of the “technical software issues” that caused the delivery delays have not been disclosed.
