TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The aircraft upgrade plan of the Republic of China Air Force is progressing at a rate of three planes per month, with at least 100 aircraft completed by the end of last year.
However, the authorities recognize that structural improvements alone are insufficient. To address this issue, Taiwan has entered into an airplane life extension project with the United States, with a price tag exceeding NT＄1 billion.
Chen Guo-ming, the news department director of Defence International, said, "it might be necessary to adjust the relevant software to accommodate long-range attack missiles like the AGM-154C."
"Of course, modifying the relevant software would require performance enhancements. All of these modifications would necessitate collaboration with the original equipment manufacturer," Chen added.
The medium-range precision strike weapon, AGM-154C, was the initial armament approved by President Trump for sale to Taiwan upon his inauguration.
The timing of the F-16V structural modification and upgrade is aligned with the deployment of this weapon. However, the media reported that the F-16Vs were still equipped with AIM-9X missiles in recent training exercises.
Some experts suggest that this could be part of drills focused on handling high-altitude balloons.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Communist Party has recently released photographs of the Army's 72nd Group performing amphibious sea and air landing exercises.
"Despite the use of drones, it is still necessary to exercise caution regarding possible infiltration by individuals with malicious intent," said Lin Ying-yu, assistant professor at TKU Graduate Institute of International Affairs & Strategic Studies.
As the Chinese People's Liberation Army enhances all facets of its military, Taiwan's national defense budget is likely expected to continue to rise.