Report cites lack of skilled manpower and internal leadership changes as reasons for schedule change
Taiwan News
Date: 2019/04/26
By: Ryan Drillsma, Taiwan News, Staff Writer
F-16V fighter jets. (Image: lockheedmartin.com)
TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The local upgrade program for Taiwan’s F-16 fighter jet fleet is going slower than expected, according to industry insiders.
A representative from the Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) said a lack of manpower is hindering progress, according to ET today. The company chairman and director reportedly resigned over the matter.
Taiwan began efforts to modernize its F-16 fleet last year under the project name “Phoenix Rising.” The Air Force received its first modernized model in October.
The remaining 141 F-16 units were originally set to be upgraded at a rate of 24 per year. Following news of delays, the prospective completion rate is now uncertain.
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