BLUF

The first of 66 F‑16V fighter jets ordered from the US have arrived to boost Taiwan’s air-defence capabilities amid growing military pressure from China. Additional aircraft and domestic submarine projects expected to strengthen deterrence.

Learning Outcomes 

  • Explain the role of the F-16V fighter jet acquisition in enhancing Taiwan’s air defence capabilities and its significance in responding to military pressure from China.
  • Analyse the strategic importance of U.S.-Taiwan defence relations, including arms sales, delivery delays, and their impact on regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Assess Taiwan’s broader military modernisation efforts, including fighter aircraft upgrades and indigenous submarine development, and how these contribute to deterrence and national defence readiness. 
READ: Taiwan’s first two F-16V fighter jets arrive to bolster defenses against China

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