In a high-stakes simulation of air combat, the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF), commonly known as the Taiwan Air Force, showcased its readiness and strategic capabilities in the annual “Sky Dragon” (Tien Lung) exercise. This particular iteration, held last year, involved a face-off between Taiwan’s Mirage 2000 fighter jets and F-16 fighter jets, with the latter representing the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) of China. This simulation served as a critical assessment of Taiwan’s defense strategies against potential incursions by Chinese aircraft, highlighting the importance of such exercises in maintaining regional security.

The Sky Dragon exercise is an annual event organized by the Taiwan Air Force to test and enhance its combat readiness. It involves various simulated air combat scenarios designed to mirror potential real-world threats. The primary objective of these exercises is to prepare the Taiwan Air Force to effectively counter any aerial threats from adversaries, particularly from the PLAAF.

In last year’s Sky Dragon exercise, the Taiwan Air Force deployed four Mirage 2000 fighter jets to intercept and engage four F-16 fighter jets, which were designated as stand-ins for Chinese aircraft. The scenario was a high-intensity, dogfight-style engagement, aimed at simulating an incursion by the Chinese Air Force into Taiwanese airspace.

Lt. Colonel Zhuang Weibo, a member of the 42nd Combat Team of the Taiwan Air Force, commented on the exercise’s outcome, stating, “With effective training and teamwork, all of the F-16s, purportedly belonging to the Chinese Air Force, were successfully shot down while the Taiwan Air Force lost one Mirage 2000.”

The Sky Dragon exercise is critical for testing the Taiwan Air Force’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to aerial threats. By simulating realistic combat scenarios, the exercise provides valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of both the pilots and the aircraft. This, in turn, informs future training programs and procurement decisions.

Taiwan Mirage 2000 Fighter Jets

The Taiwan Air Force operates a fleet of 60 Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets, which were acquired from France in the mid-1990s. These jets are a significant component of Taiwan’s aerial defense capabilities. Of the 60 jets, 48 are single-seater variants, while the remaining 12 are two-seaters.

Developed by Dassault Aviation, the Mirage 2000 jets are equipped with advanced RDY radar systems capable of tracking eight targets simultaneously and launching four MICA air-to-air missiles concurrently. This radar system, coupled with the jet’s agility and speed, made the Mirage 2000 one of the most formidable fighters in the Taiwan Air Force’s arsenal during the 1990s.

At the time of their acquisition, the Mirage 2000 jets were the most advanced aircraft in the Taiwan Air Force, surpassing other fighters like the F-5E and Ching-Kuo. However, the introduction of more modern aircraft and upgrades to existing F-16s has since diminished the Mirage 2000’s status as the preeminent fighter in Taiwan’s fleet.

Despite their initial prowess, the Mirage 2000 jets have been overshadowed by newer, more advanced fighters. To maintain the operational effectiveness of these jets, Taiwan has initiated a modernization program. This program includes upgrading avionics, enhancing combat capabilities, and improving overall aircraft performance.

The decision to upgrade the Mirage 2000 fleet has been met with challenges, primarily due to the high costs involved. The Mirage jets are reportedly the most expensive to operate within the Taiwan Air Force. According to reports, Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense has allocated US$328 million (RM1.6 billion) to purchase engine spare parts for its fleet of Mirage fighter jets. However, the high operational costs and the financial burden of upgrades have led to deliberations on the extent of the modernization efforts.

The Taiwan Air Force has plans to upgrade nine Mirage 2000 jets initially, with the possibility of extending the upgrades to the entire fleet depending on the availability of funds and strategic requirements. These upgrades are deemed necessary due to anticipated delays in the delivery of 66 new F-16C/D Block 70 fighter jets purchased from the United States.

In the Sky Dragon exercise, the F-16 fighter jets played the role of the adversary, representing the PLAAF. This choice was significant given the widespread use and versatility of the F-16, which is also operated by the PLAAF. The exercise, therefore, provided a realistic simulation of a potential engagement with Chinese aircraft.

The F-16 is a highly maneuverable, multi-role fighter jet capable of performing various combat missions. Equipped with advanced avionics, weapons systems, and a powerful engine, the F-16 is renowned for its agility and combat effectiveness. In the Sky Dragon exercise, the F-16s demonstrated their capabilities, posing a significant challenge to the Mirage 2000 jets.

Taiwan Defense Strategy

The Sky Dragon exercise underscores the importance of continuous training and preparedness in safeguarding Taiwan’s airspace. The simulated engagement between the Mirage 2000 and F-16 jets highlighted the need for advanced tactics and seamless coordination among pilots.

Taiwan’s decision to upgrade its Mirage 2000 fleet and procure new F-16C/D Block 70 jets reflects a strategic investment in maintaining a robust and modern air force. These efforts are crucial for countering potential threats from the PLAAF and ensuring Taiwan’s air superiority.

The Sky Dragon exercise also has broader implications for regional security in East Asia. By showcasing its aerial combat capabilities, Taiwan sends a clear message of deterrence to potential adversaries. This exercise, therefore, plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of power and stability in the region.

The Sky Dragon exercise is a testament to the Taiwan Air Force’s commitment to maintaining a high level of combat readiness and operational effectiveness. The simulated engagement between the Mirage 2000 and F-16 fighter jets provided valuable insights into Taiwan’s defense capabilities and highlighted the importance of continuous modernization and training.

As Taiwan continues to face evolving security challenges, the Sky Dragon exercise and similar training programs will remain integral to its defense strategy. By investing in advanced aircraft and upgrading existing fleets, Taiwan ensures its air force is well-equipped to counter any threats and uphold regional security.