TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan launched a massive search operation Tuesday night (Jan. 6) after an F-16V pilot reportedly ejected off the island's eastern coast during training. President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) immediately directed all agencies to prioritize the aviator's safety as the highest objective.
The single-seat F-16V Block 20 aircraft, tail number 6700, vanished from radar at 7:29 p.m. local time, approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km) east of Fengbin Township in Hualien County, the Air Force Command (空軍司令部) said. Captain Hsin (辛姓上尉), whose full name was not released, departed Hualien Air Base (花蓮基地) at 6:17 p.m. for the routine night training mission. The cause of the incident remains unknown.
The Air Force established an emergency response center immediately after the aircraft disappeared from radar screens, launching coordinated air and sea search operations across Hualien waters. Military officials have not confirmed whether Captain Hsin successfully ejected or made radio contact before or after the incident. His current status and location remain unclear, with search teams working through the night in deteriorating weather conditions.
Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) contacted Minister of National Defense Wellington Koo (顧立雄) immediately upon learning of the incident, according to Executive Yuan spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝). The premier coordinated a joint response involving multiple government agencies to maximize rescue capabilities and ensure rapid deployment of search assets. The high-level coordination reflects the government's urgency in responding to the military emergency.
A cold air mass from China caused temperatures to drop rapidly after nightfall, complicating rescue efforts and raising concerns about the pilot's survival if he ejected into the cold waters. Premier Cho urged search personnel to prioritize their own safety amid the challenging conditions while working to locate Captain Hsin. The deteriorating weather has added significant urgency to the overnight search operation in Hualien waters.
"I have immediately instructed the Ministry of National Defense and relevant agencies to make ensuring 'personnel safety' the highest priority and to conduct an all-out rescue," Lai wrote on Facebook regarding Tuesday night's incident. He added: "The Air Force emergency response center has launched a joint search and rescue operation and is actively searching in Hualien waters." The president's statement came within hours of the aircraft's disappearance.
The president called on the public to pray for Captain Hsin's safe return, emphasizing that every member of the armed forces represents a vital pillar of the nation. Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) echoed the president's message, confirming that Lai had directed all relevant agencies to conduct an all-out rescue operation immediately upon learning of the incident. ◼