POLITICS

Taiwan's Arms Race: U. S. Races Against Time to Deliver Fighter Jets

Taipei, TaiwanMon Nov 03 2025

F-16V Fighter Jets Face Production Delays

  • Original Delivery Date: End of 2026
  • Cause of Delay: Production line changes and disruptions
  • Solution: Workers now operating two shifts a day, each lasting 20 hours
  • Taiwan's Stance: Closely monitoring progress to ensure timely delivery

Advanced Glide Bombs Also Delayed

  • Original Delivery Date: End of 2026
  • New Expected Delivery: Between 2027 and 2028
  • Cause of Delay: Supply-chain issues

Taiwan's Concerns

  • Faces growing military threat from China
  • Relies heavily on the U.S. for arms supplies
  • Delays are a significant concern

Taiwan's Defense Ministry Response

  • All military purchases are carefully monitored
  • Payments adjusted based on production progress
  • Ensures Taiwan does not overpay prematurely

questions

    Will the delayed glide bombs be delivered via a really fast glider to make up for lost time?
    What measures is the U.S. taking to ensure future deliveries meet their deadlines?
    If the F-16V jets are working overtime, does that mean they'll need fighter jet unions next?

actions