China Would Freak: Could Taiwan Soon Fly the F-35 Fighter?
As Taiwan considers bolstering its defense capabilities in light of possible Chinese aggression, the self-governing island is reportedly eyeing the acquisition of Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter, along with additional Patriot missile systems.
What You Need to Know: As Taiwan considers bolstering its defense capabilities in light of possible Chinese aggression, the self-governing island is reportedly eyeing the acquisition of Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter, along with additional Patriot missile systems.
-While such a purchase would demonstrate Taiwan's commitment to its defense, experts suggest the high cost and delivery timeline may limit the F-35’s effectiveness for Taiwan’s immediate needs.
-Instead, some analysts argue that Taiwan would benefit more from retired U.S. naval vessels and robust A2/AD systems, which would better support deterrence efforts against potential amphibious assault from mainland China.
Taiwan Eyes F-35 Jets to Counter Potential Chinese Invasion
As former and now President-elect Donald Trump has indicated that the United States would like to see its allies and partners pull more weight when it comes to defense spending, few may have expected it would result in a deal that the self-proclaimed deal maker will be able to pull off.
The self-ruling island of Taiwan, which Beijing views as a breakaway province that will be returned to mainland control and by force if necessary, indicated on Monday that it would seek approval to acquire the best multirole jet fighter in service today – namely the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II.
The Financial Times first reported that "several people familiar with the situation said Taipei" could soon "request" the additional Patriot missiles, as well as the fifth-generation stealth fighter.
"Taiwan is thinking about a package to show that they are serious," a former Trump administration official told the economic publication, adding, "Assuming they follow through, they will go to the US national security adviser when they are named and present a very aggressive package of American hardware."
It is hard to imagine that such a move wouldn't raise the ire of Beijing, which sees any U.S. support for Taiwan as being counter to its interests. Yet, while Trump was reelected to a second term less than a week ago, a Taiwanese national security official reportedly has conducted an "informal discussion" with the Trump transition team, including the type of arm packages that Taipei might desire. The Taiwanese government may seek to demonstrate to the incoming administration that it is prepared to make a serious investment in its national defense.
"There are quite a few big platforms and other items that our armed forces have had their eyes on for a long time but have not been able to acquire, so there's a lot to choose from," the Taiwanese official suggested.
The F-35 is Top of the List
Lockheed Martin's F-35 has been adopted by more than a dozen U.S. partners and allies around the world, and it remains the most widely produced fifth-generation fighter in service.
But would it be the best option for Taiwan?
The biggest problem is that if any sale were approved, the aircraft couldn't arrive for years, possibly after 2027 – which is when it is believed that China's preparations to mount an amphibious assault on the island nation could be completed.
A Chinese invasion isn't a fait accompli – yet.
Just because Beijing could invade doesn't mean it would. Instead, it may seek to rattle sabers – and threaten an invasion, which it has done for years. Taipei's eventual acquisition of the F-35 could force Beijing's hand.
More importantly, it may not be what Taipei actually needs most to counter a Chinese invasion. While the multirole fighter could strike People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships, the F-35 is an expensive anti-ship option.
"Unfortunately, despite the incredible capabilities of the F-35 Lightning II, its high cost and the nature in which a conflict with China is likely to play out make it a poor investment. The performance of the Ukrainian Air Force in the conflict with Russia, gallant as it has been, gives further credence to the idea that even an advanced ROC fighter component would struggle in a war with China," wrote Maya Carlin for The National Interest earlier this year.
Better Options Than F-35 for Taiwan
The F-35 was just one of several platforms that Taipei has expressed a desire to acquire – and for a nation with a defense budget that is dwarfed by mainland China, it would do better to request retired U.S. warships and more Patriot missile batteries. Taiwan has sought to obtain retired Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers and Perry-class frigates.
Those vessels along with the Patriots could effectively serve as anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) platforms given that China will have to move vast numbers of military personnel and armored vehicles across the Taiwanese Strait.
Washington might get on board with such a deal.
As the Financial Times also reported, "during Trump's first term," the White House "approved 11 packages to Taiwan worth $21 billion." That included F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and M1 Abrams main battle tanks (MBTs).
Author Experience and Expertise: Peter Suciu
Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer. He has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers, and websites with over 3,200 published pieces over a twenty-year career in journalism. He regularly writes about military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity, politics, and international affairs. Peter is also a Contributing Writer for Forbes and Clearance Jobs. You can follow him on Twitter: @PeterSuciu. You can email the author: [email protected].
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