Taiwan’s military is making significant strides in bolstering its air defense capabilities with plans to construct 26 additional hardened shelters for its aircraft. This development comes as the island anticipates the arrival of 66 new F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from the United States, which will increase the total number of these advanced aircraft to approximately 110 to 120. These jets are set to be based at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung County, complementing the existing fleet of F-16V Block 20s stationed in Hualien County.
To safeguard this expanding fleet, the Taiwanese air force has earmarked more than NT$6.88 billion for the construction of new shelters in both Hualien and Taitung. The plan involves building 22 shelters in Hualien and four in Taitung, alongside five general aircraft hangars and additional support facilities in Hualien for transport aircraft. The timeline for this extensive project begins with initial project management, surveying, and design work slated to start in 2027, followed by detailed design and contracting phases in 2028 and 2029. The actual construction is scheduled for 2030, with completion expected by 2031.
The strategic initiative aims to implement a “one aircraft, one shelter” policy, enhancing the survivability of Taiwan’s fighter jets in the face of potential military threats. By dispersing the aircraft to fortified locations in Hualien and Taitung, Taiwan seeks to maintain its combat readiness and ensure continued capability for interception, suppression, and homeland defense missions. The shelters are designed to offer superior protection against explosive attacks, thereby allowing a greater number of fighter jets to stay operational during sudden assaults.
In parallel with these infrastructural developments, President William Lai has called upon military leaders to stay abreast of rapid technological advancements and the evolving global security landscape. He underscored the necessity of strengthening joint operations, boosting asymmetric capabilities, and planning for future defense needs, while also highlighting the role of artificial intelligence as a supportive tool. The president emphasized the importance of maintaining military preparedness and investing in national defense to uphold peace and safeguard Taiwan’s sovereignty.