Image Credit: Taiwan News
Taiwan will maintain its reconnaissance operations using RF-5 jets in combination with F-16Vs while awaiting the delivery of advanced drones and recce pod systems, according to military sources. Despite decommissioning its ageing F-5 fighters in 2023, the Taiwanese Air Force is keeping the reconnaissance variant operational due to its essential role in surveillance missions.
A multi-year project, set to run from 2023 to 2025, has been launched to ensure the upkeep of the RF-5’s camera and avionics systems, with a budget of NT$33 million (US$1.03 million). Additionally, NT$1 million has been allocated for technical support, with the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology tasked with handling the repairs.
Taiwan’s efforts to upgrade its reconnaissance capabilities include the procurement of four MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones from the United States. Personnel selected for this programme have already commenced training in the U.S., and the drones will be delivered in two batches by 2025. The Air Force has also been actively preparing for the introduction of the F-16V fighter jets, which are expected to arrive later this month after a delay in the original schedule.
The military has been building the largest F-16 maintenance hub in the region, aiming to support the jets’ operations and maintenance. Furthermore, 65 Air Force personnel will be sent to the US next year for specialised tactical training on the F-16, as part of a NT$36.64 million initiative to expand the number of seed instructors.
Taiwan’s continuous investment in both modernising its fleet and maintaining its existing assets highlights its commitment to bolstering its national defence.