First two F-16 Block 70 jets arrive in Hawaii, expected in Taiwan by Sunday

Taiwan is eagerly anticipating the arrival of its first two F-16 Block 70 fighter jets, a significant upgrade to its air defense capabilities. The aircraft, identified by serial numbers 6727 and 6728, have completed a leg of their journey, landing in Hawaii after departing from the manufacturer's facility in South Carolina.

These jets are the vanguard of a larger order for 66 F-16V aircraft, part of the "Phoenix Project." After a brief stop in Hawaii, the fighters are expected to proceed to Guam before making their final destination at the Taitung Air Base in Taiwan. Military sources indicate the jets are scheduled to arrive by Sunday.

Legislator Wang Ting-yu shared the news on his Facebook page, noting the F-16Vs were spotted at Honolulu International Airport. He expressed excitement about the arrival of the "strongest 4.5 generation fighter jets" back in Taiwan. The new aircraft will undergo ground testing and crew familiarization training immediately upon arrival at the Chihhang Base.

Despite previous delays in production by the U.S., which impacted the year-end delivery target for all 66 aircraft, American officials have pledged to expedite production. The goal is to complete the transfer of the remaining 63 F-16Vs by the end of 2027 or 2028. This delivery will substantially enhance Taiwan's air combat power, particularly its capabilities with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.

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the strongest 4th generation half fighter jets are returning to Taiwan!