The US company Lockheed Martin is taking steps to accelerate the delayed delivery of new F-16V fighter jets to Taiwan, Reuters reports, reports News.bg.
The decision comes after Taiwan's Ministry of Defense confirmed that the program had been postponed due to supply chain problems.
Taiwan, which faces a growing military threat from China, has long complained about delays in deliveries of weapons ordered by the United States - its main strategic partner and arms supplier.
In a report to lawmakers, the ministry announced that the delivery of all 66 F-16V fighters, originally planned for the end of 2026, is being postponed due to changes in production lines and temporary interruptions.
In an emailed statement, Lockheed Martin stressed that it remains committed to providing “critically important capabilities“ to strengthen Taiwan's air defenses.
The company recalled that in addition to the new aircraft, the modernization program for the island's existing F-16 Viper has already been completed in December 2023.
“We continue to work closely with the U.S. government to accelerate delivery times where possible, ensuring a safe and fully compliant product,“ Lockheed Martin said.