The first two of the 65 F-16V Block 70 fighter jets Taiwan purchased from the United States were brought to Chihang Air Base in the Taitung region by two U.S. cargo planes that took off from Hawaii.
The first delivery had been scheduled for August. The delivery was delayed after the aircraft were kept in Hawaii during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to the United States in September.

Taiwan strengthens its air defense
Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te said receiving the first two aircraft marked an important milestone for the island’s air defense capabilities. Lai said the delivery demonstrated Taiwan’s determination to defend peace through the use of force.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory. Taiwan has maintained de facto independence since 1949, following the Chinese Civil War.

Under the “one China” principle, Beijing opposes the establishment of military ties with Taiwan and the sale of weapons to the island by countries that recognize China.
China has increased military pressure on Taiwan in recent years and has not ruled out using force if necessary to achieve the island’s reunification with the mainland. Taiwan is also seeking to strengthen its defense capabilities by increasing military spending and purchasing new weapons systems from the United States.