Taiwan’s air force is gearing up to construct 26 new hardened aircraft shelters to accommodate an expanded fleet of F-16Vs, as the island expects to receive 66 new F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from the United States. This expansion will bring the total number of F-16Vs deployed on Taiwan’s east coast to between 110 and 120. The new jets are slated for deployment at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung County, joining the F-16V Block 20s already stationed in Hualien County. To safeguard this growing fleet, the air force has earmarked more than NT$6.88 billion for construction projects in Hualien and Taitung from 2027 to 2031.
The air force’s plan includes building 22 shelters in Hualien and four in Taitung. Additionally, Hualien will see the development of five general aircraft hangars and associated facilities to support transport aircraft operations. Initial project management, surveying, and design are scheduled to kick off in 2027, with detailed design and contracting phases anticipated for 2028 and 2029. The construction will begin in 2030, with completion expected by 2031.
This initiative aims to implement a “one aircraft, one shelter” policy, enhancing the survivability of Taiwan’s fighters during potential military conflicts. The plan allows aircraft to be dispersed to fortified locations in Hualien and Taitung, which would help preserve Taiwan’s combat capabilities and ensure the continuation of interception, suppression, and homeland defense missions. The new shelters are designed to provide increased protection against explosive attacks, thereby ensuring that more fighter jets remain operational in the face of sudden assaults.
In parallel with these infrastructure developments, President William Lai has called on military officers to stay abreast of rapid technological advancements and shifts in the global security landscape. He highlighted the importance of bolstering joint operations, enhancing asymmetric capabilities, and planning for future defense needs. Lai also pointed to the potential of artificial intelligence as a tool to support these efforts, while stressing the necessity of maintaining military readiness and continuing investments in national defense. According to Lai, strengthening Taiwan’s defense capabilities is crucial for preserving peace and safeguarding the island’s sovereignty.