A New Era for Taiwan's Air Force: The Retirement of F-5E/F Fighter Jets and the Rise of the AT-5 Brave Eagle

The Taiwan Ministry of National Defense (NMD) has made a significant decision that will shape the future of its Air Force. In 2024, the entire fleet of F-5E/F Tiger II fighter jets, used by the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF), is set to be phased out. The role of these American-made Northrop jets will be succeeded by domestically-produced light fighter jets known as AT-5 Brave Eagle, which are already gradually becoming operational.

According to reports in Taiwanese media, the retirement of the F-5E/F variants, including the RF-5E Recce, will be followed by the introduction of MQ-9 drones, signifying a strategic shift in the country's defense capabilities. This move reflects the Ministry's commitment to modernize its air defense and adapt to changing geopolitical dynamics.

The Republic of China (Taiwan) possesses a fleet of 84 F-5E/F Tiger II fighter jets, with the majority of them currently stored in hangars, waiting for their final days of active service. Additionally, Taiwan has 7 RF-5E variants, which have been an integral part of the nation's defense strategy.

The F-5E/F has played a crucial role in Taiwan's air defense for many years. However, with the rapid evolution of military technology and the need for more advanced and versatile platforms, it is now time for the retirement of these dependable workhorses.

The AT-5 Brave Eagle, produced by the Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC), is the star of Taiwan's next-generation fighter jet program. These aircraft are powered by two Honeywell/ITEC F124-200TW non-afterburning turbofan engines, making them formidable additions to the ROCAF fleet.

The decision to retire the F-5E/F Tiger II series in favor of the Brave Eagle is a strategic one. The Brave Eagle is not only a symbol of Taiwan's commitment to self-reliance but also represents a significant advancement in the country's defense capabilities. With cutting-edge technology and superior performance, the Brave Eagle is poised to take the ROCAF to new heights.

The ROCAF initiated the transition process on November 29, 2021, when it received its first batch of AT-5 Yung Ying (Brave Eagle) advanced jet trainers (AJT) from the Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC). The first aircraft, bearing the serial number 10-9003/1101, took off from Taichung Air Base and landed at Taitung Air Base, the headquarters of the 7th Flight Training Wing (FTW), at 10:34 local time.

The AJT project traces its origins back to the early 2000s when the ROCAF began searching for a replacement for the aging AIDC AT-3 and Northrop F-5F training aircraft. The Brave Eagle, a testament to Taiwan's domestic aerospace capabilities, emerged as the most suitable candidate.

With the retirement of the F-5E/F Tiger II fighters and the induction of the AT-5 Brave Eagle, Taiwan is taking a bold step forward in strengthening its air defense capabilities. The new fighter jets will play a pivotal role in safeguarding Taiwan's airspace, as well as contributing to regional stability in East Asia.

The move also sends a clear message about Taiwan's commitment to self-sufficiency in defense production, reducing reliance on foreign military equipment. As the AT-5 Brave Eagle program progresses, it is anticipated that more of these advanced fighter jets will replace the aging F-5E/F Tiger II fleet.

In 2024, the Republic of China Air Force will bid farewell to its trusted F-5E/F Tiger II fighter jets, marking the end of an era. The transition to the AT-5 Brave Eagle is not just a change in aircraft but a transformation in Taiwan's approach to defense.

This bold move reaffirms Taiwan's dedication to modernizing its military capabilities, maintaining regional stability, and reducing dependence on foreign defense equipment. The Brave Eagle, a symbol of domestic innovation and excellence, is set to soar the skies and protect the island nation for years to come.