Why Taiwan’s F-16Vs are its best bet against the J-20 stealth fighter
- Tuesday’s accident involving one of the island’s upgraded jets a setback but the island is relying on the advanced planes to fend off an air attack
- Are the F-16V’s sophisticated weapons systems, intelligence sharing and advanced radar a match for the PLA’s showcase plane?
The J-20’s advanced radar and electronics, along with its integrated weapons management systems, are believed to be similar in concept to the US F-35. Its long-range missiles can travel 300km (186 miles) and its radar system can detect targets up to 135km away.
The upgraded F-16V has a better chance than its predecessors of detecting the J-20. Unlike earlier versions, it is fitted with an APG-83 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and other up-to-date avionics.
It is also capable of carrying advanced air-to-air AIM-9X missiles and the block 70s, which are expected to start arriving in 2023, will be driven by powerful F-110-GE132 engines, for better manoeuvrability in dogfights.
The F-16V is regarded as a fourth or even 4.5-generation fighter. It can share intelligence with consort planes through its detection system, while its superior night vision and automatic ground collision avoidance system make it capable of close and long-distance combat with the J-20.