Taipei, Oct 02 (V7N)- Taiwan is set to strengthen its air defense capabilities as the first two of 66 newly ordered F-16V fighter jets from the United States are scheduled to arrive on Friday, October 2, Reuters reported.

The two aircraft are expected to land at Taitung airbase on Taiwan's mountainous eastern coast. The delivery comes after several delays, including complications related to the aircraft's software.

Taiwan ordered the 66 Lockheed Martin-manufactured F-16V fighter jets from the United States in 2019 under a deal worth approximately $8 billion. Once the full delivery is completed, Taiwan's F-16 fleet will number more than 200 aircraft. Taipei also completed an extensive modernization program for its existing F-16 fleet in 2023.

Taiwan faces sustained military pressure from China, which claims the self-governed island as part of its territory. Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels regularly operate around Taiwan, prompting Taipei to maintain a high state of readiness.

Taiwanese Defense Minister Wellington Koo said additional F- 16Vs would arrive in successive batches.

“Certainly, deliveries will not be limited to just these two fighter jets by the end of the year,” Koo told reporters at Taiwan's parliament.

The delivery also comes amid renewed attention over US security commitments to Taiwan. Washington has maintained that its defense policy toward the island has not changed.

Military analysts say the F-16V's modern avionics, advanced radar and weapons systems will enhance Taiwan's ability to monitor and respond to potential air threats, including China's increasingly sophisticated fighter aircraft.

Although the United States does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, Washington remains its principal international arms supplier. US law permits the provision of defense equipment to help Taiwan maintain its self-defense capabilities.

A US State Department spokesperson said Washington remains committed to working with partners in the Indo-Pacific, including Taiwan, to support regional security, prosperity and shared values.

China's Foreign Ministry had not immediately issued a response to the latest F-16V delivery.

END/SMA/AJ