Taiwan’s air defense capabilities took a major step forward as Lockheed Martin officially unveiled the first of 66 newly built F-16 Block 70 fighter jets during a rollout ceremony at its Greenville, South Carolina, facility. The aircraft, an F-16D bearing serial number 6831, represents a crucial component of Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air force amid escalating regional tensions.
The $8 billion deal, signed in 2019, will see Taiwan become the largest operator of the F-16 in Southeast Asia, with a total fleet of 205 jets once all deliveries are complete. These new aircraft will complement the Republic of China Air Force’s (ROCAF) existing fleet of 139 upgraded F-16Vs, which underwent a comprehensive modernization program between 2012 and 2023.
Originally, Taiwan expected to receive its first newly built F-16 in 2024, but delivery was postponed due to software development and supply chain challenges. According to Aviation Week, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has now confirmed that the first batch of F-16 Block 70s will arrive in 2027, with all 66 aircraft set for delivery by the end of 2026.
These new fighters will be assigned to the 7th Tactical Fighter Wing, stationed in Taiwan’s eastern region. President William Lai, during an inspection of the unit in January 2025, noted that two of its three tactical groups had been staffed and were awaiting the aircraft’s arrival.
Taiwan’s defense ministry emphasized that the F-16 Block 70 procurement was driven by “enemy threats and urgent national defense needs.” While not explicitly stated, the primary concern remains China, which has increased military activity near Taiwan in recent years.
The U.S. government’s approval of the sale was a significant moment, as China had long opposed such military support for Taiwan. Washington’s decision aligns with its commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, which emphasize continued U.S. assistance in Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities.
The deal was considered a “red line” for Beijing, which has repeatedly protested U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. However, Taiwan’s acquisition of the F-16 Block 70 not only strengthens its air force but also solidifies its strategic partnership with the U.S. in the face of growing security challenges.
The F-16 Block 70/72 represents the most advanced iteration of the F-16, incorporating cutting-edge technology that enhances survivability, lethality, and operational effectiveness. Unlike the F-16V upgrade program—which brought older jets up to a similar standard—these Block 70 aircraft are newly built and include several enhancements:
- AN/APG-83 AESA Radar – A state-of-the-art radar system capable of tracking more than 20 targets simultaneously at longer ranges while providing high-resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) mapping.
- Center Pedestal Display (CPD) – A new high-resolution 6″x8″ screen that improves situational awareness by providing enhanced radar and targeting pod data.
- Advanced Avionics and Data Sharing – Upgraded Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system, Link 16 datalink, and a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) avionics subsystem for improved network-centric warfare capabilities.
- Enhanced Pilot Systems – Compatibility with the Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System II (JHMCS II), Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS), and Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS).
- Structural Reinforcements – Upgraded wings, fuselage, and landing gear to increase the aircraft’s Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) and Maximum Landing Weight (MLW).
- Lockheed Martin has stated that Taiwan’s F-16 Block 70s may also feature the Martin-Baker US18E ejection seat, further enhancing pilot survivability.
Taiwan’s journey to modernizing its fighter fleet began in 2012 with the Peace Phoenix Rising program, an initiative to upgrade its existing fleet of F-16A/B Block 20 aircraft to the F-16V standard. Initially, 144 jets were slated for upgrades, but this number was revised to 141 after three aircraft were lost in accidents. Two additional aircraft were later lost, bringing the final tally to 139 upgraded F-16Vs in service.
Lockheed Martin upgraded the first prototype in 2015, with Taiwan’s Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) taking over local modifications in 2016. The program saw early delays, but by 2018, production accelerated to a rate of at least 24 aircraft per year. The final upgraded jet was delivered in December 2023, marking the successful completion of the program.
The F-16V upgrade provided these aircraft with many of the same advanced systems found in the Block 70, ensuring interoperability between Taiwan’s existing and newly acquired jets.
Taiwan’s acquisition of the F-16 Block 70 positions it as the largest F-16 operator in Southeast Asia, reinforcing its role as a key player in regional security. The aircraft will serve as the backbone of Taiwan’s air defense, ensuring it maintains a credible deterrence against potential threats.
Beyond Taiwan, demand for the F-16 Block 70 remains high. Lockheed Martin has secured orders from at least six countries, and the production backlog now exceeds 100 aircraft. With Lockheed Martin ramping up production at its Greenville facility, Taiwan’s order is part of a broader global trend of nations investing in advanced fourth-generation fighters as a cost-effective alternative to fifth-generation platforms.
While the F-16 Block 70 represents a significant leap forward for Taiwan’s air force, the country continues to explore further advancements in its air defense strategy. Taiwan has expressed interest in acquiring F-35 stealth fighters, but political and security concerns have made such a sale unlikely in the near term. Instead, Taiwan is focusing on indigenous defense projects, including the Taiwan Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF) and the development of next-generation unmanned systems.
The arrival of the F-16 Block 70 in 2027 will mark a turning point for Taiwan’s air force, providing a formidable mix of upgraded and newly built aircraft capable of meeting the challenges of modern aerial combat. As tensions in the Taiwan Strait persist, the continued modernization of Taiwan’s air force remains a top priority, ensuring the island nation retains the capability to defend its sovereignty and airspace.
With this landmark rollout, Taiwan has taken another significant step toward strengthening its air defense—one that will have lasting implications for the region and beyond.
