TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Air Force began its routine joint tactical proficiency training on Monday.
Fighter jets, including F-16Vs, Indigenous Defense Fighters, and Mirage 2000s, have redeployed to Chia-shan Air Base in Hualien for the two-week long course, per CNA.
Military officials explained that the Air Force’s annual Tian Long Exercise is mainly a competitive exercise between Air Force units and air defense units, whereas the joint tactical proficiency training involves drills with the Army and Navy. The training focuses on evaluating joint operational capabilities.
Taiwan was originally scheduled to receive 66 F-16V jets by the end of 2026, but delays have arisen due to supply chain and production line issues. The US has set up a special task force to oversee operations.
Air Force Chief of Staff Lee Ching-ran (李慶然) said that Taiwan has been pushing for faster production and stronger communication with the US. Flight tests for F-16Vs produced in the US began in January.
