Taiwan is preparing to develop its next generation of indigenous fighter jets, President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said.
Tsai revealed the plan in an interview with Era News that aired on Sunday evening in which she reflected on her two terms in office.
Tsai highlighted the government’s resolve to build up Taiwan’s autonomy in the area of defense systems.
Photo: Screen grab from Era News’ YouTube channel
As part of that commitment, the government plans to start developing the next generation of fighter aircraft, she said, without giving details.
Under the government’s defense autonomy plan, it would take delivery of 66 Brave Eagle advanced trainer aircraft by 2026, Tsai said, adding that 27 have already been delivered.
“If [the plan] is interrupted, it would be difficult to resume,” the president said, expressing hope that the next president would continue to support the development of the nation’s defense industry.
Tsai, whose second and final presidential term ends on May 20, reiterated that her defense policy centers on Taiwan gaining “defense autonomy.”
When other countries are contemplating joining forces to safeguard Taiwan, the main question is always whether Taiwan is firmly committed to self-defense, she said.
The government’s efforts to bolster its defense systems are driven in part by its desire to prove its capabilities and commitment to protect itself, she said.
Taiwan in September last year unveiled the prototype of its first indigenous submarine — the Hai Kun (海鯤), or “Narwhal” — which Tsai said was a milestone in the country’s efforts to obtain defense autonomy.
Submarine construction calls for systematic design and integration capabilities, and it is an all-encompassing undertaking that requires talent, she said.
The Hai Kun is expected to be delivered to the navy by the end of the year, after testing is completed.
Tsai in the interview also talked about cross-strait relations, saying it is the biggest challenge for “every administration and president of Taiwan.”
She said that bilateral relations essentially consist of two scenarios — either the positions of the two parties are in alignment and everything runs smoothly, or there is a conflict of interests.
When conflicts arise, it is crucial to manage the risks, she said.
Given the inherent differences in the relations between Taiwan and China, the government of Taiwan must navigate and mitigate those risks, she said.
Based on that perception, she adopted the position of “maintaining the status quo” across the Taiwan Strait when she took office in 2016, and she remains committed to that concept, she said.
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