Taiwan Receives First F-16 Block 70 Jets from US Amid Rising China Tensions

Taiwan has received its first F-16C/D Block 70 fighter jet from the U.S., part of a $8 billion deal signed in 2019 for a total of 66 aircraft. The delivery ceremony took place at Lockheed Martin's facility in Greenville, South Carolina, attended by Taiwanese officials, highlighting the deepening military partnership between the U.S. and Taiwan amid rising tensions with China. The F-16 Block 70 jets feature advanced upgrades, including modern avionics and improved radar systems, aimed at enhancing Taiwan's air defense capabilities. This delivery marks Taiwan as the largest customer of this F-16 variant, which is set to replace aging aircraft in its fleet. While Taiwan had originally sought F-35 fighters, U.S. approval for such advanced platforms remains unlikely due to political sensitivities. The delivery schedule has faced delays, with completion now expected by 2028, but it represents a significant step in bolstering Taiwan's defense amid ongoing regional tensions.