Taiwan Signs Nearly $1B Deal for F-16s Repairs

12 December, 2024 An F-16V fighter jet from the 23rd Fighter Group with an AGM-88B missile. Photo credits: HJT The Republic of China (Taiwan) has signed a contract for the maintenance of its F-16 multi-role fighter jets in the United States.

The contract was published by the U.S. Department of Defense. The contractor is Leidos Inc. based in Virginia.

The contract was concluded under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program and is estimated to be worth £987 million. The contract provides for the repair and return of aircraft to Taiwan, analysis and resolution of fleet problems related to the shortage of spare parts.

A single-seat F-16V fighter jet with the number 6691 of the Air Force of the Republic of China during testing. November 2023.

Taiwan. Photo credits: Tsungfang Tsai

All work is expected to be completed by May 31, 2034. Taiwan is one of the largest operators of F-16 fighters.

It is known that in 1992, 150 F-16A/B Block 20 fighter jets were ordered by the country. Their delivery was completed in 2001. They were upgraded to the F-16V variant under the Peace Phoenix Rising program.

It is also known that in August 2019, the Trump administration approved 66 new F-16 Block 70s sales.

Procurement by the Republic of China

On November 11, it was reported that the Taiwanese government planned to place a large order for American weapons as part of deepening cooperation with the new U.S. presidential administration. As part of this large package, the country was considering the purchase of destroyers, long-range radar detection aircraft, fighters, and missiles.

Flight of American F-35s at a parade in Poland.

Photo credits: Polish Ministry of Defense.

One of Taiwan's priorities is to obtain about 60 of the latest F-35A fighters from the United States, which will potentially allow it to counter mainland China and its J-20 fighters.

As part of the creation of a reinforced defense line and early warning system, Taiwan has also placed an order for the purchase of modern E-2D long-range radar detection aircraft.