Daily briefing
October 5, 2026
Executive summary
Drones and industry dominated today's 36-item feed with ten and nine items respectively, while Europe and North America together generated 26 of the 36 stories and air and missile defense ran as the connecting thread across domains and regions. The largest industrial signal was Boeing's approximately $14.7 billion, seven-year undefinitized agreement from Lockheed Martin to triple production of PAC-3 MSE interceptor seekers, reinforced by ASELSAN's €2.46 billion hybrid air defense contracts with Turkey's Secretariat of Defence Industries, which the company described as its largest single contract in 51 years, and by Avio USA's groundbreaking on a more than $500 million solid rocket motor factory in Hurt, Virginia. Iran-related security concerns shaped US posture, as Washington withdrew 12 B-1Bs that had supported strikes on Iran from RAF Fairford on October 4 amid a suspected plot against the base, reportedly deployed two more Patriot batteries to protect a Saudi oil site and a Qatari gas facility, and cleared Kuwait for a possible $400 million package of Patriot repair-and-return services. Counter-drone defense was the other dominant thread, with Joint Interagency Task Force 401 selecting directed-energy systems from AeroVironment, Boeing, Epirus and Kord for a pilot ahead of a December evaluation at Dugway, the Netherlands signing a letter of intent with EOS on its Apollo high-energy laser, France firing guided 68 mm rockets at a drone from the Rampart launcher aboard Mistral, and 378 drone incursions reported along the Mexican border in 30 days. Uncrewed force design advanced in parallel as the US Air Force shortlisted seven companies for a Massed Modular Aircraft program targeting 500 aircraft by 2032 with a baseline cost target of roughly $10 million per aircraft excluding mission systems, Germany confirmed a dedicated Army drone regiment from 2027, and Anduril won a US Army award worth up to $1.8 billion to scale Next-Generation Command and Control to corps level. Signals to watch include the December directed-energy evaluation at Dugway, the definitization of Boeing's seeker award, disclosure of the systems and quantities behind ASELSAN's package, the next Massed Modular Aircraft award decision and the outcome of the British investigation into the suspected Fairford plot.
◆ Articles covered
- IndustryDefense DailyAnduril Nabs Potential $1.8 Billion Army Deal To Support ‘Corps-Scale Fielding’ For NGC2
Anduril has received a US Army award worth up to $1.8 billion over five years to expand Next-Generation Command and Control from divisional prototypes to corps-scale fielding. An initial $162.8 million base period will support deployment beginning with I Corps in the Pacific. The architecture uses Anduril’s Lattice software as a distributed common data layer, connecting sensors, weapons and operational applications across dispersed formations. The award extends work tested with the 4th Infantry Division, while the full ceiling represents potential spending over the agreement rather than an immediate obligation of $1.8 billion.
- Industrydefenceturkey.comASELSAN Signs Record EUR 2.46 Billion Air Defense Contract
ASELSAN announced contracts totaling €2.46 billion with Türkiye’s Secretariat of Defence Industries on October 5 for the procurement of hybrid air defense systems. The company described the package as the largest single contract in its 51-year history, although it did not identify the equipment variants, quantities or delivery timetable. Its hybrid air defense approach combines multiple weapons and sensors, with the GÜRZ family illustrating the integration of guns, missiles, radar, electro-optical equipment and electronic warfare on a mobile platform. The announcement does not establish which of those configurations is included in the new procurement.
- IndustryDefence Industry EuropeBoeing wins $14.7 billion contract to triple Patriot PAC-3 MSE seeker output amid record global demand for air defense missiles
Boeing has received an approximately $14.7 billion, seven-year agreement from Lockheed Martin to triple production of seekers for Patriot PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptors. Announced on October 5 as an undefinitized contract action, the award follows an April framework agreement to expand output for growing air and missile defense demand. Boeing has invested more than $200 million since 2024 in production capacity, including a 35,000-square-foot expansion at its Huntsville facility. The agreement covers the seeker that supports terminal target interception, with Lockheed Martin remaining responsible for the overall PAC-3 MSE missile program.
- DronesArmy RecognitionUS Air Force shortlists seven companies to replace MQ-9 Reaper with 500 new MMA combat drones
The US Air Force has shortlisted seven companies for its Massed Modular Aircraft program, seeking an affordable, modular uncrewed fleet with a target of 100 aircraft by 2029 and 500 by 2032. Anduril, Chaos Industries, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Grid Aero, Otto Aerospace, Shield AI and Swarm Aero were selected on September 30. The proposed aircraft would accommodate interchangeable equipment for surveillance, strike, electronic warfare and communications missions, with a baseline cost target of roughly $10 million excluding mission systems. The competition seeks prototypes about a year after award, ahead of selecting and scaling a production design.
- NavalNaval NewsKraken and Saab UK develop pioneering autonomous ‘drone seeker’ vessel
Saab UK and Kraken have developed an experimental autonomous vessel that combines Kraken’s K3 Scout uncrewed surface platform with Saab’s Giraffe 1X radar to detect and track aerial threats at sea. The partners completed the integration in less than seven months and are conducting sea trials to assess radar performance in a maritime environment. The lightweight three-dimensional radar provides real-time surveillance, including detection of small airborne targets, from the mobile vessel. The demonstrator is intended to operate independently or alongside crewed ships, with potential applications protecting shipping, ports and offshore energy infrastructure.
- NavalNaval NewsFrench Navy and Naval Group test Rampart CIWS at sea during WILDFIRE Exercise
The French Navy and Naval Group tested the Rampart close-in weapon system at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship Mistral during WILDFIRE 26.2, held near Toulon from September 28 to October 2. The modular launcher fired unguided Thales 68 mm rockets against a surface target and guided 68 mm rockets against an aerial drone. A Piorun missile was also integrated and its seeker locked onto a target, but it was not fired. The trials evaluated combinations of effectors for counter-drone defense, with additional SkyKnight and Belgian 70 mm rocket tests planned for 2027.
- LandJanesSingapore Army unveils new artillery, precision-strike systems
Singapore’s Army has revealed a new truck-mounted howitzer and a vehicle-mounted precision-strike launcher in imagery released for the 6th Division’s 50th anniversary on October 2. The Ministry of Defence confirmed their roles on October 4 and said the artillery capability would progressively replace the SSPH Primus self-propelled howitzer and FH2000 towed gun. The images show an automated gun installation and a separate missile-launching vehicle, but Singapore has not disclosed their manufacturers or detailed performance specifications. The unveiling establishes the modernization direction without announcing procurement quantities, a complete fielding schedule or the precise configurations of either system.
- IndustryJanesAvio USA breaks ground on Virginia SRM factory
Avio USA broke ground on its first American solid rocket motor factory in Hurt, Virginia, on September 29, advancing an approximately 900,000-square-foot facility intended to expand missile and munitions production capacity. The project represents an investment exceeding $500 million on a site covering roughly 1,300 acres. HITT Contracting has begun pre-construction work, with detailed design due in mid-October and full construction awards expected from December. Avio aims to complete the factory by the end of 2028 and begin manufacturing and delivering rocket motors in 2029, with production equipment already ordered.
- DronesDefense DailyAV, Boeing, Epirus And Kord Selected For Directed Energy C-UAS Pilot
The Pentagon has selected four directed-energy systems for a counter-drone pilot led by Joint Interagency Task Force 401 under the fiscal 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. The participants are AeroVironment’s Palletized High Energy Laser, Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System, Epirus’s Leonidas high-power microwave system and Kord’s Firefly laser. The effort will collect operational data on performance, requirements, costs and employment practices in coordination with the services, US Northern Command and the Federal Aviation Administration. A December evaluation at Dugway will support further comparison, with pilot selection establishing an assessment phase rather than a broad deployment commitment.
- Navalbairdmaritime.comDanish consortium secures contract for four naval environmental and minelaying vessels
Denmark’s defense procurement agency has awarded Orlogsskibe Danmark a DKK1.9 billion contract for four naval vessels combining environmental response and minelaying missions. The consortium brings together OSK Design, Karstensens Shipyard and Hvide Sande Shipyard, with Danish responsibility for design, outfitting, completion and subsequent maintenance. Hull construction is taking place in Gdańsk, Poland, where the first steel was cut on June 10, and deliveries are planned across 2028–2030. The ships will replace four existing environmental protection vessels and support oil and chemical spill response, patrols, mine operations and protection of underwater infrastructure.
- DronesDefense WarRoomUSS Ronald Reagan Now Ready to Fly MQ-25A Stingray, Three Years Before IOC
USS Ronald Reagan has received the Unmanned Air Warfare Center needed to control MQ-25A Stingray aircraft, becoming the second US carrier equipped with the facility after USS Theodore Roosevelt. Installation was completed in August during a 17-month maintenance period that included 11 associated modifications. The center integrates the Navy’s MD-5 carrier ground control station and Lockheed Martin’s mission-control technology, with pier-side and at-sea validation supporting readiness for future operations. The milestone prepares the carrier’s command infrastructure ahead of the MQ-25’s planned 2029 initial operational capability and does not indicate that Stingrays are already operating from the ship.
- IndustryDefense WarRoomUAE APKWS Sale: US Clears 10,000 Counter-Drone and Strike Rocket Kits
The US State Department approved a possible $1.041 billion sale to the United Arab Emirates on October 2 covering up to 10,000 APKWS II guidance sections in air-to-air and air-to-ground configurations. BAE Systems is the principal contractor, and the package includes warheads, rocket motors, proximity fuzes, training equipment and technical and logistics support. APKWS inserts a laser-guidance section into a 70 mm rocket, enabling precision surface strikes and counter-drone engagements with appropriately configured rounds. The notification follows a separate May approval for 1,500 air-to-air sections and represents an estimated sales ceiling pending agreement, rather than a completed delivery or signed production contract.
- AirDefense WarRoomPoland Puts 12 FA-50GF Fighters on Combat Duty Against Russian Jet Drones
Poland has declared its 12 FA-50GF light combat aircraft ready for combat duty, with Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announcing the milestone on October 2. The jets will reinforce national air defense and protection of the eastern border after the acquisition of weapons needed to move beyond their initial training role. All 12 interim aircraft have been delivered, beginning with the first pair in August 2023, under a wider order for 48 Korea Aerospace Industries fighters. The remaining 36 aircraft are the more specialized FA-50PL version, whose deliveries had not begun at the time of the announcement.
- LandDefense WarRoomU.S. Deploys Two More Patriot Batteries to Saudi Oil and Qatari Gas Sites
The United States has reportedly deployed two additional Patriot batteries to protect energy facilities in Saudi Arabia and Qatar amid concern over renewed conflict with Iran. Reporting based on two US officials and a regional source places one battery at a Saudi oil site from September and another at a Qatari natural gas facility. The deployments are intended to reassure both governments that Washington will help defend infrastructure vulnerable to retaliatory attacks. The specific sites, units, launcher numbers and interceptor configurations have not been disclosed, and US Central Command declined to comment on the reported movements.
- InstitutionalDefense WarRoomNATO Air Defense Absorbs 65-Year Air Policing Mission to Counter Drones
NATO has integrated its long-running Air Policing mission into a broader, continuous Air Defence posture during 2026 to address drones, cruise missiles and crewed aircraft. Under the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, the framework combines quick-reaction fighters with sea- and surface-based air and missile defenses and counter-drone systems. Eastern Sentry deployments and other reinforcement activities have been incorporated into the standing mission, whose evolution was detailed in NATO documentation updated on September 29. The expanded posture retains airspace monitoring and interception duties while providing additional layers of defense and greater flexibility to respond to changing threats.
- IndustryDefense WarRoomKuwait Cleared for $400M Patriot Missile Repair After Iranian Strikes
The US State Department approved a possible $400 million sale of Patriot missile repair and return services to Kuwait on October 2. The package covers sustainment support including transportation, spare parts, test equipment, technical documentation, training, maintenance, and engineering and logistics services intended to restore Patriot components to service. The notification does not specify missile variants or quantities and represents an estimated ceiling for proposed support rather than a signed contract for new interceptors. Publicly available details of the 2026 case do not establish the principal contractors or a fixed duration for contractor personnel in Kuwait.
- IndustryDefense WarRoomEgypt Javelin Sale: US Approves 2,020 FGM-148F Missiles for $832M
The US State Department has approved a possible $832 million sale to Egypt of up to 2,020 Javelin FGM-148F missiles and 200 Lightweight Command Launch Units. The October 2 congressional notification names Lockheed Martin and RTX as principal contractors, with the missile quantity including 20 rounds for production acceptance testing. Javelin provides infantry with an imaging-infrared, fire-and-forget anti-armor weapon, while the FGM-148F’s multipurpose warhead extends its use against lighter targets and structures. The approval sets maximum quantities and an estimated package value; final procurement terms and the delivery timetable remain to be agreed.
- AirDefense WarRoomUS Pulls 12 B-1Bs From RAF Fairford After Suspected Iran-Linked Plot
The United States withdrew 12 B-1B bombers from RAF Fairford on October 4 amid security concerns surrounding a suspected plot against the Gloucestershire air base. British investigators detained six people, including a dual British-Iranian national, and subsequently released them on bail. The bombers had supported strikes on Iran, and the Pentagon confirmed that the deployed aircraft returned to their home bases in the United States. President Donald Trump attributed the movement to an Iran-linked threat, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied a direct connection to the suspected plot, whose investigation remained ongoing.
- SpaceDefence Industry EuropeUK commits £2.3 billion to military satellite communications and plans unified procurement led by the Ministry of Defence
The UK has committed £2.3 billion to military satellite communications services for fiscal years 2026–2027 through 2029–2030 as part of its updated defense space strategy. The allocation sits within a wider £2.8 billion satellite communications package combining sovereign capabilities with commercial and allied services. The Ministry of Defence plans to consolidate purchasing through an Enterprise Space Category approach, coordinating requirements that have previously been handled through separate procurement channels. SKYNET will continue to support sensitive military communications, while the hybrid model is intended to improve access, resilience and flexibility rather than fund a single newly announced satellite contract.
- IndustryDefence Industry EuropeHensoldt signs agreement with Ukraine for further air defence radar deliveries and development of surveillance capabilities
Hensoldt has signed a memorandum of understanding with Ukraine to expand air defense radar deliveries and develop additional surveillance capabilities. Concluded in Kyiv on October 4 during the German chancellor’s visit, the agreement builds on existing cooperation and includes work supporting protection against ballistic missile threats. The partners also plan to examine deployment and joint operation of Hensoldt’s TRL-4D LR long-range radar, extending the scope beyond current deliveries. Ukraine already uses Hensoldt radars with IRIS-T air defense systems, but the memorandum does not disclose a firm additional order quantity, contract value or delivery timetable.
- DronesDefence Industry EuropeBoeing says Link 16 software test advances plans for Super Hornet crews to control MQ-25A Stingray tankers and extend mission reach
Boeing has flight-tested Link 16 software intended to let Super Hornet crews command MQ-25A Stingray tankers, advancing the Navy’s plans for teaming between crewed and uncrewed aircraft. The demonstration took place during Emerald Flag at Eglin Air Force Base using a Beechcraft 1900D and an E90 King Air as surrogate platforms. The software supports command and control through an open architecture, with Boeing’s Phantom Works, MQ-25, F/A-18 and F-22 teams participating in the effort. The flights validated the communications approach ahead of integration with operational aircraft, rather than demonstrating an MQ-25 controlled in flight by a Super Hornet.
- Cyberaviationweek.comSpain Selects A321 For Sigint Mission, Air Force Pub Reveals
Spain has selected the Airbus A321 as the proposed platform for three new signals-intelligence aircraft under Santiago II, according to its Air Force’s October official publication. Airbus and Indra are conducting conceptual design work on a crewed system intended to collect and process information across the electromagnetic spectrum. The program would restore a dedicated airborne capability lost when Spain retired its Boeing 707 intelligence aircraft in 2014. The publication also raises a possible national airborne early-warning derivative, but this remains an option rather than a confirmed additional fleet, and detailed production and delivery arrangements have not been announced.
- LandShephard MediaKNDS points RCH 155 towards longer-range artillery future
KNDS has fitted a tracked RCH 155 demonstrator with a new French-designed 155 mm, 58-caliber gun as part of its LORAS long-range artillery development. The installation combines the remotely controlled, automated Artillery Gun Module with the Boxer tracked platform shown at Eurosatory 2026. KNDS targets ranges beyond 60 km with new high-explosive ammunition and up to 100 km with special rounds, while retaining compatibility with existing 52-caliber-standard shells. These figures describe the development objective for the longer-barreled system, which is designed for wheeled or tracked integration, rather than a newly announced operational delivery.
- DronesReutersUS Army tests counter-drone tech at Mexican border as cartel drone use rises
The US Army tested counter-drone systems near the Mexican border during September’s Falcon Peak exercise in Arizona, seeking faster adaptation to growing cartel drone activity. US Northern Command hosted demonstrations of radars, interceptor drones and autonomous gun systems for detecting, tracking and defeating small aircraft. A senior border task-force officer reported 378 incursions in the preceding 30 days, largely involving commercial surveillance drones associated with smuggling and human trafficking. Officials said the border provides an operational environment for equipment evaluation and soldier training, while emphasizing that cartel aircraft differ from sophisticated battlefield drones used in Ukraine.
- DronesJanesDutch MoD and EOS sign LOI on development of company's HEL into operational C-UAS
The Netherlands’ Ministry of Defence and EOS signed a letter of intent on September 24 to develop the company’s Apollo high-energy laser into a fully operational counter-drone capability. The agreement provides a framework for further technical work and discussions about acquiring an unspecified number of systems. EOS also proposes Dutch manufacturing, a European headquarters in the Netherlands and a supply chain led by local industry. The initiative advances cooperation on laser-based air defense, but a letter of intent does not establish a final procurement contract, agreed production quantity, total program value or operational fielding date.
- AirJanesUSAF forges ahead on F-16 EW, avionics upgrades
The US Air Force has awarded Northrop Grumman an $87.4 million low-rate initial production contract for the Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite on F-16 Block 50 aircraft. The September 24 award follows testing of two systems across more than 500 flight hours and 350 sorties, with first production deliveries expected in the first quarter of fiscal 2028. IVEWS upgrades the fighter’s ability to detect and counter electronic threats as the fleet remains in service. Air Force planning identifies 206 systems for Block 50 and 52 aircraft, although that wider objective exceeds the initial production award.
- NavalArmy RecognitionUS Navy launches Blueye X3 tethered drone from torpedo tube for submerged submarine inspections
The US Navy launched a tethered Blueye X3 remotely operated vehicle through a submerged USS Pasadena torpedo tube during an August 24 trial near Norfolk. Sailors developed a launch arrangement using low-voltage wiring and a custom three-dimensional-printed waterproof housing, with materials and labor costing less than $1,000 excluding the existing vehicle. The Green Remora project demonstrated an approach to external hull inspection and security checks without sending divers into the water. The trial offers a comparatively inexpensive way to deploy an inspection vehicle from a submarine, while remaining a remotely operated demonstration rather than an autonomous operational system.
- LandDefense WarRoomFrance Delivers First Two Leclerc Tank Turbomachines Overhauled In-House
France’s DGA and Aeronautical Industrial Service delivered the first two Leclerc tank turbomachines overhauled at the state-owned AIA Bordeaux, announcing the milestone on October 5. Acceptance testing restored the units’ original performance, and deliveries were completed ahead of schedule after the ministry brought deep industrial maintenance in-house. The turbomachine supplies compressed air to the tank’s Hyperbar diesel engine, making its availability essential to powerpack performance. The workshop targets 25 renovated units annually from 2027, with routine contract oversight transferring to the Army’s sustainment authority as the line supports the Leclerc fleet’s continuing service and XLR modernization.
- InstitutionalDefense WarRoomGermany Backs Emden Naval Base to Relieve Wilhelmshaven and Reach High North
Germany has chosen Emden for a new naval base, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced on October 5, providing additional North Sea capacity alongside Wilhelmshaven. The proposed Rysumer Nacken site at the Ems estuary offers room for expanded berthing and access to operations in the North Sea and North Atlantic. Plans envisage up to 2,000 service positions, with operational readiness targeted for the early 2030s and implementation through Niedersachsen Ports. A letter of intent begins the development process, so the decision establishes the location and planning direction rather than a completed base or an immediately available operational facility.
- InstitutionalDefense WarRoomUS Army Orders Autonomy Command and Gives Itself Two Years to Field Robots
The US Army has ordered the establishment of Futures and Autonomous Systems Command and set fiscal 2028 as the deadline for prioritizing acquisition and fielding of key autonomous capabilities. Announced on October 2, the directive also creates a dedicated portfolio acquisition executive for autonomy and requires changes to force structure and personnel. Priorities include autonomous fires, combat vehicles, waterborne resupply, breaching, reconnaissance and target acquisition, together with teaming between crewed and uncrewed platforms. The Army will integrate these capabilities across six functional areas and expand specialist roles for tactical uncrewed aircraft and robotics technicians.
- DronesDefence Industry EuropeU.S. Navy delivers digital test range to Australia to prepare autonomous aircraft for combat missions alongside crewed fighters
The US Navy has delivered the first Joint Digital Autonomy Range (JDAR) framework capability to Australia, making it the first international partner to receive the software-based environment for testing aircraft autonomy. Developed by Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, the range uses an open architecture that allows different autonomy software to be evaluated through millions of simulated flights. It supports testing in demanding threat scenarios before aircraft operate alongside crewed platforms. The Navy also plans an unclassified, autonomy-enabled Joint Simulation Environment for future multi-aircraft missions, extending the partnership beyond the initial digital range without implying those later capabilities have already been delivered.
- IndustryDefence Industry EuropeOshkosh Defense expands African business with Morocco order for 50 heavy transporters and 50 trailers to support armored forces
Oshkosh Defense has received a follow-on Moroccan order for 50 HET A1 heavy equipment transporter tractors and 50 Broshuis MN573 trailers, announced on October 5. The direct commercial sale was placed through Optimum Vehicle Logistics, Oshkosh’s exclusive distributor in Morocco, after an earlier tranche entered operational service. The combinations are intended to move heavy armored equipment, including main battle tanks, recovery vehicles and self-propelled artillery, supporting force mobility and logistics. The order expands an established customer relationship, although the companies have not publicly disclosed its financial value or a delivery schedule for the additional vehicles and trailers.
- DronesDefence Industry EuropeARX Robotics and Roboneers sign partnership to integrate and jointly develop unmanned ground systems for Ukrainian forces
ARX Robotics and Ukraine’s Roboneers signed a strategic technology partnership in Kyiv on October 4 to integrate and jointly develop uncrewed ground systems for Ukrainian forces. The agreement expands cooperation across vehicles, software and supporting systems, incorporating operational feedback from battlefield users. It builds on the ARX Industries joint venture established in June to manufacture the Rys Pro platform in Ukraine and Germany, alongside ARX’s existing Gereon activities. The partners intend to accelerate industrial development and supply, but the new partnership announcement does not specify an additional contracted vehicle quantity, financial value or delivery timetable.
- Dronesaviationweek.comGermany Plans Dedicated Drone Regiment
Germany plans to establish a dedicated Army drone regiment from 2027, bringing reconnaissance, strike and counter-drone functions into a specialized formation. The government confirmed the plan on October 2, describing capabilities spanning different operating ranges and both airborne and ground systems. The regiment will be developed alongside the integration of uncrewed capabilities into existing formations, with initial establishment preceding full staffing and equipment planned for 2029. The announcement sets an organizational direction for adapting the Army to drone warfare, but does not identify a complete equipment package, individual procurement quantities or the total cost of the formation.
- Dronesaviationweek.comNew Zealand Seeks Polar-Capable Shipborne UAS
New Zealand’s Ministry of Defence has opened market research for polar-capable uncrewed systems that could operate from Navy ships and conduct maritime surveillance. The request for information seeks industry capabilities and indicative costs for operations across the Southern Ocean and from New Zealand toward the equator. Potential missions include search and rescue and monitoring illegal fishing, with the work informing Maritime Fleet Renewal under the 2025 Defence Capability Plan. The exercise is an information-gathering stage for future business cases and Cabinet decisions, rather than an equipment selection, funded purchase or commitment to a particular system or delivery schedule.
- AirJanesTaiwan receives first F-16V Block 70 fighters on order
Taiwan received its first two new-build F-16V Block 70 fighters on October 2, with aircraft numbered 6727 and 6728 arriving at Zhihang Air Base in Taitung. They are the first deliveries under the 66-aircraft acquisition funded through a TWD247.23 billion special budget for 2020–2026. The 7th Tactical Fighter Wing, established to operate the new fleet, is preparing personnel and maintenance support as operational capability is introduced progressively. These aircraft add to Taiwan’s existing F-16 force, including 137 older Block 20 fighters upgraded between 2017 and 2024, rather than constituting another conversion of those airframes.