Taiwan faces delays in its F-16 delivery program due to labor shortages and global supply-chain disruptions, Air Force Chief of Staff Lee Ching-jan said on Thursday. The US-approved F-16 delivery was originally scheduled to complete by the end of next year.
During a Legislative Yuan committee meeting, Legislator Ma Wen-chun asked Defense Minister Wellington Koo to clarify his remark that full delivery would be “challenging.” Lee said COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war have slowed production.
Lee added that Lockheed Martin has hired extra workers and extended hours to accelerate assembly. However, he acknowledged that Taiwan will not meet the 2026 delivery target.
The Ministry of National Defense had projected that at least 10 F-16V jets would arrive by year-end. Lee confirmed that only 10 jets will finish assembly and test flights this year.
Taiwan has already paid over NT$150 billion (US$4.87 billion) of the NT$246.7 billion special budget for the F-16 delivery. Yet, the country has not received a single jet, prompting questions about remaining budget allocations if delays continue.
Legislators also requested that the air force report plans to address the capability gap expected between Taiwan’s air force and China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force in 2027. Officials said they are coordinating closely with the US to resolve production challenges.
Experts warn that F-16 delivery delays could slow Taiwan’s air defense modernization and affect regional security. The government must maintain operational readiness while awaiting the jets.
Taiwan will continue monitoring production and adjust strategies to minimize gaps. Lawmakers expect updates on timing and budget management in upcoming reports.
The delays highlight how labor shortages and global supply-chain issues can directly affect defense procurement and military preparedness.
