US defense industry delays delivery of F-16V fighters to Taiwan

The delivery of 66 F-16V fighter jets from the United States to Taiwan has been delayed: only a few units are expected to arrive this year, which is significantly less than the original plans.

This was reported by Defense Blog with reference to local media.

The delivery schedule has shifted, and the full completion of the delivery by the end of 2026 now depends on the US ability to maintain the new production rate.

The Air Force of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has confirmed that system integration issues have slowed production and delivery.

Taiwan has ordered new fighters, modernized on the basis of the F-16C/D, with enhanced capabilities for striking ground targets.

These improvements require additional testing and complex integration, which has complicated the schedule.

Earlier, the Ministry of Defense of Taiwan stated that all 66 aircraft should be delivered by the end of 2026.

However, sources in the military department have expressed doubts as to whether the delivery will be completed by that time.

In their opinion, the key factor is the ability of American manufacturers to quickly resolve technical difficulties.

As of the end of March, Taiwan has received only one fighter jet.

Although the initial production phase was slower than expected, Taiwanese officials emphasize that the delivery program is still more than a year and a half away from completion.

Development of Taiwanese Air Force Capabilities

Earlier, on the 5th of February, it became known that the Ministry of Defense of Taiwan intends to strengthen airspace control by purchasing additional E-2D long-range radar detection aircraft.

It is expected that the Ministry of Defense will submit a request for the purchase of six E-2D aircraft to replace the outdated E-2Ks in the Taiwanese Air Force.

Although the exact value of the potential deal has not yet been disclosed, it is noted that it will depend on the configuration of subsystems and the ability to integrate auxiliary equipment from older aircraft. The final price will be determined after a formal request is submitted.