To make this website work, we log user data. By using Shephard's online services, you agree to our Privacy Policy, including cookie policy.

×
Open menu Search

Taiwan will push for F-35Bs and KC-135

7th March 2018 - 00:10 GMT | by Wendell Minnick in Taipei

RSS

It is official, no matter how illogical the procurement in the face of a massive military threat, Taiwan will request at least three squadrons of F-35B short take-off and vertical-landing (STOVL) fighters and four ageing KC-135 aerial refuelling tankers now being retired by the US Air Force.

Many within the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) see the KC-135 as impractical for combat operations, with China’s improving air defence systems now capable of blanketing the island with both coastal and sea-based air defence systems. 

Aerial refuellers would allow Taiwan’s F-16s to extend trainer time and expand patrol missions, but during

Already have an account? Log in

Want to keep reading this article?

Read this Article

Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account

  • Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
  • 2 free stories per week
  • Daily news round-up email service
  • Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Create account

Unlimited Access

Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.

  • Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
  • 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
  • Unlimited access to all published premium news
Start your free trial
Wendell Minnick

Author

Wendell Minnick


Wendell Minnick (顏文德) was Shephard's Senior Asia Correspondent throughout 2017 and 2018. Wendell is an …

Read full bio

Share to

Linkedin